Conditions
Heel pain
Not all heel pain is plantar fasciitis. Cushioning, heel lifts, and motion control each help different causes — the exam tells us which.
Related product categories
Related guides
- Rocker-sole shoes: what the curved sole actually does
- Achilles pain and wobbly ankles: what support actually helps
- Shoes for plantar fasciitis: a podiatrist's checklist
- Easing plantar fasciitis at home
- Adult flat feet: support that actually helps
- Custom orthotics vs. store-bought insoles
- On your feet all day: how to manage the load
- Runners and hikers: when feet hurt after miles
Products that meet these criteria
As a board-certified podiatrist, I recommend products I trust and use in my practice. Some links on this page are affiliate links — if you purchase through them, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This does not influence my recommendations, which are based on my clinical experience. You are free to purchase these products from any retailer. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Before you buy: some of these products may be covered by your insurance, or eligible for purchase with an FSA or HSA — sometimes at little or no cost to you. It is worth a call to your plan first. Nothing here needs to be bought through my links.
Meets the criteria
New Balance (stability line)
Firm heel counter, orthotic-ready
New Balance (stability line) — view at AmazonMeets the criteria
HAPAD arch pads
Wool felt; adds arch support to shoes you own
HAPAD arch pads — view at AmazonMeets the criteria
HAPAD met pads
Shaped wool felt
HAPAD met pads — view at Amazon