Heel bursitis is a condition that causes pain in the heel, usually when you’re walking. The pain comes from inflammation in the bursa, which is a small sac of fluid that cushions your heel bone.
While there are many ways to treat heel bursitis, one of the most effective and easiest ways is to wear shoes with proper support.
In this article, we’ll discuss the best shoes for heel bursitis so that you can find the right pair for your feet and get back on your feet!
Best Shoes For Heel Bursitis
Best Shoes For Bursitis
Bursitis in the foot can be painful and uncomfortable, and symptoms can be worsened by wearing the wrong shoe. Wearing the correct footwear will help you to manage your symptoms, so bursitis doesn’t get in the way of you getting out and being on your feet.
The best shoes for bursitis provide protection and comfort for the foot, particularly the heel. Don’t worry about having to do the research yourself—I’ve comprised a list of things you should look out for when choosing the best shoes.
The best shoes for bursitis of 2020 are:
- Orthofeet Men’s Walking Shoes
- Gravity Defyer Women’s G-Defy Mighty Walk Sneakers
- Vionic Unisex Walking Shoes
- Dr. Comfort Ruk Men’s Boots
- Birkenstock Essentials Unisex Arizona Sandals
What Is Bursitis?
Bursitis can occur anywhere in the body that’s located near a joint, tendon or bone. It results when the bursae, which are the small fluid-filled cushioning sacs in these areas, become inflamed.
With foot bursitis, it’s usually the toes, the heel and the ball of the foot that becomes affected. The cushioning in our feet protects us from impact and absorbs shock as we move, so when these become inflamed, we’re more sensitive to impact, which leads to pain.
Symptoms Of Foot Bursitis
The main symptom of bursitis is pain, associated with achy feelings in the heel and ball of the foot and around the toes.
Redness and swelling may also occur in these areas. You may also have difficulty moving your feet.
Causes Of Foot Bursitis
There are a few different things that can lead to bursitis in the foot:
- Overusing the joint, including regularly going up and down the stairs.
- Poorly fitting shoes.
- Wearing high heels for extended periods.
- Rapid movement or a sudden twist that puts immediate tension onto the joint.
- Trauma, including sports injuries or accidents.
- Arthritis.
- Gout.
Treatment And Prevention Of Bursitis
It’s important to rest, take the weight off and relieve the pressure from your feet if you have symptoms of bursitis.
The American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons also recommends the following non-surgical treatments, which may ease the pain:
- Local ice therapy, ensuring the affected area is covered by an ice pack—or a pack of peas if that’s all you have in the freezer.
- Anti-inflammatory medicines, such as ibuprofen.
- Corticosteroid injections can help to relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
- Padding for the foot, including appropriate footwear.
If it persists, you may need to speak to your doctor about surgical procedures that can be done to treat long-standing symptoms.
Bursitis is treatable, and symptoms will disappear after a little while. However, it can come back time and time again.
The best way to prevent bursitis recurrence is to wear appropriate footwear that protects the foot and provides bursa cushioning and heel support.
Features Of The Best Shoes For Bursitis
You want shoes that are going to support your feet, relieve pressure and pain from the inflamed areas, and maximize comfort as you move.
There are a few things you should look out for here:
- Cushioning.
- Deep heel cup.
- Size.
- Arch support.
Cushioning
As the cushioning on your foot is compromised through inflammation of the bursae, you need a shoe that’s going to substitute this.
The best cushioning pads are usually made from gel or foam, as this material is a great shock absorber while being soft and comforting for your feet.
Deep Heel Cup
Shoes with deep heel cups protect the heels, holding them in place and stabilizing them. This is particularly important for when bursitis is affecting your heels; however, protection of the heel will offer further support to the whole foot.
Size
Make sure your shoes aren’t too tight, as this applies unnecessary pressure to the feet. Wide-fit shoes and those with a roomy toe box area ensure your feet have enough space to move comfortably.
Arch Support
Shoes that have arch support built into the footbed help with the positioning of the foot, and affect the body’s posture.
If the foot is supported in its natural arched position, it will naturally relieve pressure from the heel and ball of the foot. This will help to minimize the pain brought on by bursitis.
The Five Best Shoes For Bursitis
Say goodbye to pain and discomfort, and say hello to shoes that bring you the foot satisfaction that you need. Check out these best shoes to help you overcome bursitis and support you in the meantime.
I’ve tried to pick an array of different shoe types, so you have different options in terms of style and occasion. From sneakers to boots to sandals—you’re spoilt for choice!
1. Orthofeet Men’s Walking Shoes
Anatomical built-in arch support in these shoes give your feet the positioning and support they need to relieve stress from the heel and ball of the feet, eliminating painful pressure.
These lightweight shoes have air cushioning built into the soles, to give your feet the feeling, as if they really are walking on clouds. The cushioning works to absorb shock, protecting your feet from impact.
Additional cushioning is located in the insoles of these shoes, providing further protection and comfort for your feet. The insoles are lined with soft fabric that’s seam-free, making them appropriate for sensitive feet.
Deep, padded heel cups give your feet the stability and support they need to maintain perfect posture and relieve pressure placed on the ankles, knees and hips.
These shoes are available from sizes 7 to 15 in regular, wide, extra-wide and extra-extra wide variants.
Pros
- Extra-large toe box.
- 60-day money-back guarantee.
- Elastic laces.
- Traction marks on the soles for a good grip.
Cons
- Mesh material isn’t water-resistant.
2. Gravity Defyer Women’s G-Defy Mighty Walk Sneakers
A great pain-relieving sneaker for women, the G-Defy Mighty Walk is clinically proven to reduce pain associated with the feet, ankles, knees and back.
These shoes are also perfect for wearing all day long. Whether you’ve had a long day at work or a busy afternoon at the mall, your feet will have the support they need to keep going.
A rigid midsole and deep heel cup take the stress off of the heel and ball of the foot, providing comfort and support where you need it most.
VersoShock technology in the heel consists of a foam cushioning pad that absorbs shock and protects your feet from impact. The thick, ergonomic sole of the shoe also supports shock absorption.
Available in sizes 6 to 11, these women’s sneakers are also available in wide and extra-wide sizes.
Pros
- Roomy toe box.
- Insoles are removable.
Cons
- Metallic paint on the shoe easily wears and fades quickly.
- Not water-resistant.
3. Vionic Unisex Walking Shoes
This Vionic walker shoe is so versatile and simple that you can wear it every day but is stylish enough for work, too. Although advertised as a shoe for men, it’s, in fact, unisex and is available in women’s sizes.
These shoes have received the seal of acceptance by the American Podiatric Medical Association, so you can be assured that they’ve been tried and tested for effectively relieving foot pain, which is great news for bursitis suffers.
Cushioning in the footbed protects the feet from impact and provides a soft, comfortable area for your foot to lay on. Also, the deep heel cup and high ankle height help to keep your feet stable, secure and maximize comfort.
Available in sizes 7 to 13, for both men and women, with wide options, too.
Pros
- Lace-up system keeps feet and ankles secure.
- Good arch support.
- Toe cap for toe protection.
- Thick sole.
Cons
- Sizes run small (order one size bigger).
4. Dr. Comfort Ruk Men’s Boots
These chukka boots will keep your feet comfortable all day, as well as offer a contemporary look that keeps you up to date with the latest footwear fashion.
A mix of top-quality leather and suede materials offer durability that’ll last, as well as helping to regulate heat in the boots, keeping your feet cool and dry.
Padded gel cushioning in the footbed provides long-lasting comfort and absorbs shock as you move. Gel inserts also help provide stability in every step.
These shoes are available in sizes 7 to 14.
Pros
- Thick traction on the sole improves stability and balance.
- Lace-up system provides further security.
- Large toe box.
Cons
- Not suitable for narrow feet as shoes run wide.
5. Birkenstock Essentials Unisex Arizona Sandals
Dealing with bursitis shouldn’t mean you have to compromise on getting your feet out on a hot summer’s day, and now, with Birkenstock’s Arizona sandals, you don’t have to.
These sandals allow your feet to breathe and have exposure to the outdoors, while still giving you the support and comfort you need.
EVA foam material absorbs shock as you walk, protecting your feet from impact. They’re also ultra-lightweight, giving you freedom and flexibility to get about easily.
They’re naturally wide, making them ideal if you have wide feet or need a wider shoe. However, they can be ordered in narrow sizes. Sizing runs from a 5 to 1 15 for both men and women.
Pros
- Waterproof.
- Odor-resistant.
- Available with an ankle back strap for extra security.
- Rubber soles.
Cons
- Squeak when new.
- Although waterproof, they aren’t slip-resistant.
So Much Choice
For me, the best shoes for bursitis for men are the walking shoes by Orthofeet. These shoes offer comfort, stability and support, and work to minimize pain effectively in all the places that bursitis would affect the feet.
