By Heather Steele
It is important to wear shoes that provide support and comfort to the feet to avoid heel pain and injury. Running shoes should provide a firm fit, stiff arches and extra cushioning to take the stress off your heels. In addition to wearing properly fitted running shoes, a runner can insert a shock-absorbing insole or consult a podiatrist for any persisting heel pain.
The best running shoes to decrease heel pain include key features that provide support, maintain foot alignment and distribute stress evenly, all of which minimize stress put onto the heel. The piece of the shoe that wraps around the heel should be firm to provide support to the foot and ankle. Firm soles control movement within the foot and maintain proper alignment. Toe rocker shoes that curve prevent the plantar fascia from overstretching and evenly distribute stress.