[gradRN2007]

no balance required and I wore them for 2 years in nursing school..white leather ones that you can polish
the store i go to has rocks built into the floor and logs and little rocks for you 2 walk in and its amazing
i broke my ankle years ago and thought i would twist them for sure but no way, worked great from day one, and the second pair i bought in black that look like sneaks i wore to jazzercise for the first time tuesday and they were great,
hope this helps
robin
ps great conversation starter

[SoCalif1979]

I had plantar fasciitis in both my feet at the same time! I had orthotics made for my feet and were good supportive shoes. I never skimp on quality shoes. I had a lot of brands recommended to me, the trick is to find what works best for you. K-Swiss happens to work great for me. I also had to take time off and stay off of my feet for a while to allow them to heal, along with the stretching exercises and NSAIDS. Weight has nothing to do with it nor does fitness. I'm fit, active, and weigh 105 lbs. I just wasn't wearing proper support which was the cause of my problem.

[Trophywife81]

I religiously wear "arch bandages" on my feet during long days on hard tile. They really support and lift your arches--important for my poor, flat-footed feet. Even if you're not that flat-footed, many people with plantar fascitis use them. They're only about $6 each at pharmacies, and they've made TONS of difference for me. Those, plus my crocs keep my feet pretty cushy all day.

[notthereyet]

As a massage therapist waiting to start LPN Program January 08, I would deffinitely suggest therapeutic massage. Not just the relaxing, feel good massage, I am talking about deep tissue, myofascial release; integrative massage techniques. You can also get into the habit of soaking your feet/legs, or using some type of moist heat to help relieve the discomfort and promote blood flow, which will in turn create healthier, more relaxed tissue. Stretching regularly will also help. If affording a massage is an issue, you can also use regular household items to massage your feet. Rolling your foot over a frozen water bottle with some pressure feels great (a hard rubber ball will also work). Rub your own feet before retiring for the night. In Rolfing (structural integration) good posture and a healthly form begins with our foundation which is our feet. If your foundation is strong the rest will follow.
Be well,
Connie

[Emerld2000]

I also have the same s/s as you. I truely believe I got this from wearing crocs for almost 2 years. I now wear skechers and I love them but still have pain upon walking in the AM. Sometime I have a burning pain shoot up my heels. Im starting to think its more nerve pain.....?

[DUpre-ns]

Hello gradrn2007,
I've seen so many people here in Michigan with these shoes. I was wondering what the deal was? I will look into getting a pair. Thanks for sharing.

[pagandeva2000]

I plan to see a podiatrist this week, and if they offer the corticosteriod shots, I will certainly take them once and then invest in whatever shoes they suggest. I don't want to take the NSAIDS forever, although I do have naproxen if necessary. Thanks everyone for the responses!

[mercyteapot]

There were a couple things that really helped me back when I was on my feet all day. One was alternating hot and cold water baths on my feet as soon as I got home. You dangle your feet in the tub and just run the water as hot as you can bear and then as cold as you can bear for as long as you can stand it. The other was foot massages- either from your S.O. or with one of those devices you can buy at Brookstone. They restore the blood flow to your feet nicely.

[jamangel]

I love crocs but i am concerned about the long term effects of wearing them. I have that same pain early in the morning and it's worse if i walk barefoot. have to wear shoes. anyway, our job won't let us have a painless shift. i do alternate between crocs and sneakers (NB and nike)

[pagandeva2000]

Well, I went to see the podiatrist at my job and they gave me the cortisone treatments yesterday and ordered orthortics which will be picked up on Monday. I already feel a great difference although the needle scared the mess out of me. But, I believe it was the right route to treatment because the situation was not going to change. I work in a busy hospital clinic and have a job on Saturdays. I needed quick relief. I plan to do my exercises, and invest in some REALLY good shoes. I didn't go cheap before, but now, there is nothing worse than bad feet.

Thanks, everyone for your suggestions!