There's an epidemic plaguing the nation's healthcare workers - sore soles and hellish heels that make long days feel unbearable. But, thankfully, there’s a solution. To combat nasty overuse conditions like plantar fasciitis, you simply need to invest in a cushioned and supportive pair of nursing shoes.
Keep reading as we explore the causes and symptoms of plantar fasciitis and some effective treatments to help reduce pain. We’ll then run through five of the best nursing shoes for heel pain, that are guaranteed to make shifts more comfortable.
What is plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is an overuse condition like the well-known carpal tunnel syndrome. It occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of connective tissue running from the heel to toes, gets inflamed. This weblike ligament acts as a shock absorber, stabilising the foot as you move - it's supposed to provide plenty of cushioning to keep every step buoyant and bouncy.
Unfortunately, when the plantar fascia is injured, there's no relief on impact, meaning you'll experience intense pain around the heel and arch.
The causes of plantar fasciitis are plentiful (it's a relatively common orthopaedic complaint), so it can be tricky to pinpoint the culprit. However, people tend to experience it when they:
- Wear shoes without adequate shock absorption
- Have high arches or flat feet
- Spend all day walking or standing, especially on hard surfaces
- Exercise with tights calves or ankles
- Overstretch the soles during exercise
What is the best treatment for plantar fasciitis and heel pain?
Resting and raising your foot, ice packs and paracetamol give short-term relief for plantar fasciitis and heel pain. However, here at ToffeIn, we recommend getting to the root of the problem by focusing on long-term treatments.
Besides gentle stretching exercises and switching to low-impact activities like swimming or cycling, it's imperative to find shoes that fit like a dream.
Ultimately, you should prioritise wide bases with low heels, firm heel counters and soft soles. If possible, choose a design that offers enhanced shock absorption and cushioning. Better still, purchase ergonomic insoles for your unique anatomy. Those with flat feet benefit from arch support that evenly distributes pressure rather than overloading the toes, heels and balls of the feet.
What are the best nursing shoes for plantar fasciitis and heel pain?
Now we've run through symptoms, causes and treatments, it's time to reveal five high-quality nursing shoes that promise to revolutionise your working day. Each recommendation boasts specialist features for unbeatable comfort, safety and durability.
1. Toffeln SmartSole Clog
Spending hours on your feet means you need sturdy shoes that don't feel cumbersome or constricting. That's where the Toffeln SmartSole Clog steps in.
The firm raised heels are perfect for people with plantar fasciitis because they act as insulation between your foot and the floor, sharing weight equally throughout your foundation. Plus, the light structure minimises strain on the lower body, so you'll leave work feeling far less fatigued.
When it comes to footwear, we don't take a one size fits all approach. That's why we provide three free insoles with every SmartSole clog. So, no matter your foot size or shape, there's bound to be an option to keep you happy on your feet.
2. Toffeln EziKlog V2.0
We took the legendary EziKlog and made it even better - say hello to EziKlog V2.0.
The new and improved E-Tech material and underfoot ComfortTech cushioning tackle heel and arch pain by adding extra layers of padding. As a result, your sole is fully enveloped and protected against heavy landings. Thanks to these innovative features, the plantar fascia doesn't have to work so hard to stabilise all the intricate muscles in your feet.
Despite its barely-there feel, the EziKlog is remarkably sturdy. The Grip-Safe sole helps to prevent slips and falls, while offering a much greater penetration resistance than other lightweight models.
3. Toffeln AktivKlog
The AktivKlog is one of our most popular products, and for a good reason. It surrounds your foot in resilient, shock-absorbing material, shielding joints from further stress. What's more, the closed-in heel stops the ankle from moving around while providing unbeatable arch support - it's ideal for nurses or doctors with flat feet.
Created in collaboration with biomechanics researchers from the University of Salford, these cutting-edge nursing clogs let you focus on your day-to-day activities rather than worrying about workplace accidents. There's a Grip-Safe sole, secure heel strap, anti-static system and flexible insole for additional peace of mind.
4. Toffeln UltraLite (with vents)
If you're tired of feeling weighed down, opt for the ToffeIn UltraLite with vents. It packs a punch with innovative technology, including an adjustable heel strap, side ventilation and easy-to-clean leather uppers.
Although it has a wonderfully uncomplicated design, it's far from simplistic. It's ergonomically designed with a comfort insole and anti-shock heel for maximum satisfaction.
5. Toffeln SmartSole Trainer
Not crazy about clogs? The Toffeln SmartSole Trainers are intelligent trainers that meet on-the-job safety standards and grant the same level of expert support.
It has a puncture-resistant GripSafe sole that prevents slips alongside smooth stretch lining that eliminates rubbing and discomfort. Every pair comes with three free insoles so you can choose the one that best fits your feet.
Most importantly, the raised heels promote a healthier gait and the thickset footbed reduces impact as your rush between wards and patients, making the SmartSole Trainer one of the best kinds of nursing shoes for plantar fasciitis on the market.
Banish pain with specialist footwear by ToffeIn
We know that plantar fasciitis and heel pain can have a detrimental effect on your job performance, physical health and mental wellbeing, which is why we want to help you find the best nursing shoes possible.
At ToffeIn, we're devoted to creating an exceptional range of fully compliant, lovely looking footwear for healthcare professionals, led by the latest biomechanics research. Every design overflows with incredible features and technology to minimise pain and keep your feet happy.
If you still haven't found what you're looking for, browse the full range of ergonomic clogs, trainers and nursing shoes on our website.
