Introduction
Plantar fasciitis can be a nightmare and is usually caused by excess weight, a profession that requires constant standing, activity in high impact sports, and sometimes is just caused because a person has different foot mechanics (flat feet or high arches).
Finding the best over the counter orthotics (and insoles) for plantar fasciitis can be a difficult process, but fortunately, we have done the research and found the top options on the market today.
In this article, we will review some of the best orthotic insoles available today with an aim to assist you in making an informed decision.
Keep in mind this website does not provide medical advice. Talk to your doctor if you believe you have a medical issue.
Continue reading to learn more about the best over the counter orthotics for plantar fasciitis on the market today.
Don’t have a lot of time? Click here to go directly to the product page on Amazon.com for our top choice, Corefit Self Moldable Custom Orthotics.
Criteria for Choosing Orthotics
The best over the counter orthotics for plantar fasciitis must provide support for the secondary arch of the foot, which is the source of pain and can lead to plantar fasciitis.
The insoles’ heel cup, reinforced with a gel cushion, should be thick enough to absorb shock from the foot.
The buffer should also ease the pain emanating from the heel spurs, align the feet, and provide stability when walking.
Additionally, we look for high-quality build materials and insoles that will provide support for a long time to come.
1. Best Over The Counter Orthotics For Plantar Fasciitis – Corefit Self Moldable Custom Orthotics
Corefit Self Moldable Custom Orthotics are phenomenal, over-the-counter moldable orthotics that can help ease the pain from your plantar fasciitis and help prevent the development of foot problems in the future.
These orthotics are actually the same type of moldable orthotics that are sold to podiatrists and doctors all over the world.
Molding the orthotics is actually quite easy – you simply place the orthotics (one at a time) in boiling water for 90 seconds, and then remove them safely using tongs.
Once the orthotics have cooled, you can place your foot on the insole and then mold it to your exact needs using your fingers.
One of the most notable things about Corefit Self Modable Orthotics is that they are actually firm, compared to many of the insoles on this list that tend to be softer.
This is because believe it or not, in many instances, it can actually be better for your foot to provide firmer support as long as it is customized to your exact needs.
We highly recommend utilizing Corefit Self Moldable Custom Orthotics.
Click here to view Corefit Self Moldable Custom Orthotics on Amazon.com
2. Best Over The Counter Orthotics For Plantar Fasciitis – Stride Insoles by Tread Labs
Stride Insoles by Treads Labs are our top recommend insoles for plantar fasciitis.
These incredible insoles are made by utilizing polyurethane foam, a durable and resilient material that has minimal friction on your feet.
All the three inserts come with either high, low, medium, or extra high arch heights to march the contour of your feet for maximum all-day comfort.
They cushion the heels with their deep heel cup biomechanical support design, minimizing the chances of getting heel pain.
These removable2-part modular system stride insoles are made explicitly for people active in sports. They fit perfectly in most running shoes.
Their molded arch supports and replaceable top covers ensure a long-lasting freshness with an additional PURE antimicrobial treatment that kills most bacteria in the shoes.
Stride Insoles by Treads Labs are ideal for flat feet and plantar fasciitis extra support since they offer effective pronation control while preventing over-pronation issues from worsening.
These are our top recommended over-the-counter orthotics for plantar fasciitis.
Click here to view Stride Insoles by Tread Labs on Amazon.com
3. Best Over The Counter Orthotics For Plantar Fasciitis – PROFOOT Plantar Fasciitis Orthotics
PROFOOT Plantar Fasciitis Orthotics is a range insole for the treatment of plantar fasciitis and arch relief.
They include heel inserts for men, foot massager set, heel pain, and plantar fasciitis insoles for women, and support sock compression sleeve for foot pain and heel spurs.
These insoles cover only the heel and arch, making them ideal to wear with different kinds of shoes.
The heel is reinforced with gel protection to absorb shock and shift, and evenly distribute your body weight on your feet.
PROFOOT Plantar Fasciitis Orthotics is another top of the line insole that can that help provide you with relief from even the worst case of plantar fasciitis.
The insoles, however, cannot be used together with other insoles.
Click here to view PROFOOT Plantar Fasciitis Orthotics on Amazon.com
4. Best Over The Counter Orthotics For Plantar Fasciitis – SOUL INSOLE Micro-Size Premium Orthotic Insole
One of the best things about SOUL INSOLE Micro-Size Premium Orthotic Insole is that you can adjust these shoe bubble inserts from easily in different shoes, even when you already have a permanent insole in your shoes.
This orthotic insole resembles a flexible gel and it is easy to wash using running water. You can fit these insoles in any shoe; whether high arch or flat feet alike including tennis shoes, high heels, and flip-flops.
They don’t compromise style for comfort.
Because they support the metatarsal bones, they stop your arch from lapsing and tearing as they provide maximum support for people with plantar fasciitis.
This additional arch support of the shoe absorbs shock (impact), prevents over-pronation, and relieves pressure from the heel.
They come in small, medium, and large sizes according to the different biomechanics of human feet.
Additionally, they improve balance and foot alignment. SOUL INSOLE Micro-Size Premium Orthotic Insole may not be for everyone, but for those who want added support, they are an awesome fit.
Click here to view SOUL INSOLE Micro-Size Premium Orthotic Insole on Amazon.com
5. Best Over The Counter Orthotics For Plantar Fasciitis – Powerstep ProTech Full Length
Powerstep ProTech Full Length orthotics are double-layered orthotics made from strong medical-grade polypropylene shells provide firm and flexible arch support with a shock-absorbing cushion that yields maximum comfort.
They have extra Poron® heel pads that distribute your body weight evenly on your feet.
Whether you want to use them daily or for that random walk in the park, these insoles are durable and compatible with most footwear.
However, just like the Powerstep Pinnacle Shoe Insoles, these insoles may take some time before fully getting used to them.
These are another top of the line set of orthotics that can help relieve you of your plantar fasciitis pain.
Click here to view Powerstep ProTech Full Length on Amazon.com
6. Best Over The Counter Orthotics For Plantar Fasciitis – Nazaroo Orthotic Insoles
Nazaaroo Orthotics Insoles are medical grade orthotic inserts are good for fighting plantar fasciitis, relieving heel pain, and feet pain pronation.
Their arch support distributes pressure evenly on the foot while absorbing shock on impact.
The insoles are of a high-tech composite material that absorbs sweat and moisture leaving your feet dry.
They are treated with antimicrobial agents eliminating odor. These insoles fit most footwear are another great option if you have plantar fasciitis.
Click here to view Nazaroo Orthotic Insoles on Amazon.com
7. Best Over The Counter Orthotics For Plantar Fasciitis – Powerstep Pinnacle Shoe Insoles
Powerstep Pinnacle Shoe Insoles are dual-layered insoles are made using durable EVA foam base through variable foam technology resulting in soft padding that provides the maximum cushioning effect.
The top of the insoles is formed using an antimicrobial fabric that reduces heat and friction while keeping the feet dry and free from odor.
The inserts’ arch support is firm yet rigid with a thick heel cradle allowing for greater motion when on the move.
These insoles support both low, neutral and high arches. Powerstep Pinnacle Shoe Insoles fit a range of shoes including athletic and work boots.
Apart from adjusting well in most shoes, the insoles relieve pain associated with plantar fasciitis including sore and tired feet, metatarsal pain and pronation.
The downside is it might take some time getting used to these insoles.
Click here to view Powerstep Pinnacle Shoe Insoles on Amazon.com
How Orthotics Work To Help Your Plantar Fasciitis
Orthotics are braces or splints that provide support or relief to an orthopedic problem such as an injured muscle or joint and abnormal foot mechanics.
Orthotics work by adjusting the contact between the foot and the ground.
This, of course, is a simplistic explanation, but this is the heart of the issue – when you are experiencing plantar fasciitis, the ligaments on the bottom of the foot are torn and inflamed.
Putting too much pressure on the ligament can continue causing pain and discomfort and prevent your torn ligaments from healing.
This problem is compounded by issues like poor posture, flat feet, etc.
When you have plantar fasciitis, a doctor might prescribe for you some insoles to custom fit your shoes.
However, it is still possible to choose appropriate over the counter orthotics for your condition. With proper feet support, there is very little chance of getting pain on the heels.
Orthotics Vs. Insoles
Most people actually use the term orthotics and insoles interchangeably. Technically, however, there is a difference.
Insoles (also known as inserts) are usually made of a gel-like material or plastic, which can help provide support to the feet.
These tend to be produced widely and easy to simply slip into shoes with minimal effort.
Orthotics, on the other hand, tend to be custom made which means they are designed specifically for your foot and thus can be even greater for your foot support.
The downside to this is that it requires more work to get orthotics to work correctly, especially when molded and handled over the counter.
Orthotics can also be more firm than traditional insoles.
In any case, we have included both orthotics and insoles on this list, because as we said they are oftentimes used interchangeably.
Talk to your doctor about whether orthotics or insoles are better for your specific foot needs.
Do I Need New Shoes If I Have Plantar Fasciitis?
Fortunately, you do not have to spend money on a new pair of shoes if you are suffering from plantar fasciitis.
With today’s advanced technology, there are phenomenal over-the-counter insoles that you can you can choose to help relieve your plantar fasciitis today.
How Do I Know I Have Plantar Fasciitis?
Perhaps the common indication that you are suffering from plantar fasciitis is the stabbing pain the inflammation causes especially in the morning.
Sometimes the pain is too much it can inhibit your daily activities and even become chronic with time.
Plantar fasciitis is common in the elderly, athletes, and those who spend a lot of time on their feet. If this sounds like you, there is a good chance you have developed plantar fasciitis.
Please keep in mind this website does not provide medical advice.
Talk to your doctor if you believe you are suffering from any medical issue.
Can I Get Plantar Fasciitis On Both Feet?
Yes, unfortunately, it is quite common to get plantar fasciitis on both feet.
This is known medically as plantar fasciitis bilateral.
Fortunately, there are a number of great over-the-counter treatments and home remedies that you can utilize to help get rid of your plantar fasciitis bilateral today such as night splints, insoles, orthotics, stretching, and more.
Where Should I Purchase Over The Counter Orthotics?
Many of our readers have inquired about where the best place to purchase over-the-counter orthotics is.
They have asked us about CVS, Walgreens, Walmart, and even eBay. We believe the best place to purchase your orthotics is Amazon.com.
Click here to view our top recommendation, Corefit Self Moldable Orthotics, on Amazon.com.
In Conclusion
Thank you for taking the time to read this article on the best over the counter orthotics for plantar fasciitis.
We hope you have found this information useful, and we hope you will soon be free of the pain and suffering that can be caused by plantar fasciitis.
Keep in mind this website does not provide any medical advice. If you are suffering from plantar fasciitis or any other medical issue, talk to your doctor immediately.
I am the founder of DestroyNailFungus, and I do my best to provide comprehensive guides on health and wellness.
When I’m not running the site, I enjoy spending time outdoors and drinking coffee.