Anyone who suffers from plantar fasciitis or foot pain related to fallen arches knows just how painful it can be to take even a single step. Compression arch supports can help alleviate this discomfort and make it easier to get through your daily routine without pain or tenderness.
Compression arch supports fit snugly enough around your arches to help improve blood flow through your foot. That helps reduce inflammation, swelling and pain and make standing and walking easier. If you’re looking for comfortable, adjustable compression arch supports, the VIVE Plantar Fasciitis Strap is the top choice.
In most cases, people seek out compression arch support because they’re experiencing pain related to plantar fasciitis. This condition occurs when the tissue that spans the bottom of the foot, the plantar fascia, becomes inflamed and triggers pain in your heel. Compression arch support reduces inflammation by improving blood circulation in your foot.
You may also want to consider compression arch supports if you have flat feet or fallen arches. Because the foot doesn’t have an arch with a normal curve, it’s closer to the ground, which can cause you to overpronate. That means your foot rolls inward as you step forward, which can cause foot and ankle pain. Compression arch support won’t prevent overpronation, but it can help ease the pressure on your arches and reduce pain.
Some people also choose to use compression arch supports if they’re suffering from general foot pain or workout or sports injury issues. If you’re dealing with foot pain, you should consult a doctor to discuss your condition before using compression arch supports.
You can typically choose from three main types of compression arch support.
Most compression arch supports feature a stretchy material or blend of materials. Spandex, polyester, rayon, nylon, Lycra and even neoprene are popular options. However, polyester and neoprene blends are usually the least breathable, so they can make your feet sweat.
Given the stretchiness of the materials, compression arch supports usually require specialized care and cleaning. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for the proper washing procedure because some should be hand washed and air-dried. You can throw other compression arch supports in your washing machine and dryer for easy cleaning.
Getting the fit right for compression arch supports is essential if they’re going to reduce your pain. They should fit snugly but not be so tight that they cut off your circulation.
Most compression arch supports come in multiple sizes, though only certain brands offer men’s and women’s sizes. Most offer unisex sizing. Measure your foot carefully, and check out the manufacturer’s sizing chart to be sure you choose the correct size.
Some compression arch supports are only available in a single size. While they’re meant to be one-size-fits-all, they usually don’t work well for individuals with wide or swollen feet.
Compression arch supports typically don’t offer much in the way of color options. You’ll usually find options in black, gray or nude. Some brands offer styles that are a bit more colorful, though, so you may be able to find a few options in shades like pink, green, blue or purple.
You’ll usually spend $8-$40 on compression arch supports. The most affordable options, like band and toeless socks generally, range from $8-$12, while more durable arch supports typically cost $15-$25. The high-end compression arch supports you can wear daily without breaking down generally range from $25 to $40.
A. They work in different ways to provide relief for foot pain. Compression arch supports use compression and moderate support to help alleviate pain. On the other hand, orthopedic insoles offer pain relief by providing contoured support to the foot. While you can use both to help improve your foot pain, wearing them simultaneously is usually not recommended because they can counteract each other’s benefits.
A. Some compression arch supports offer multiple levels of compression, but many don’t. Generally, brands make a wide range of orthopedic devices and tools that provide multiple compression options.
VIVE Plantar Fasciitis Strap for Foot Pain, High Arches & Flat Feet
What you need to know: These straps come with three sets of gel pads that let you choose the amount of arch support that best fits your needs on any given day.
What you’ll love: They work well for plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, strains and sprains. They offer support for your arches when you’re physically active. They can also help alleviate pain by improving your foot’s alignment. The gel inserts provide top-notch comfort and support. They’re breathable and durable too.
What you should consider: The gel inserts can feel somewhat hard, but that helps them provide support without flattening.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
Sparthos Plantar Fasciitis Support
What you need to know: These budget-friendly bands feature a comfortable, streamlined design that fits well in shoes, including high heels and ballet flats.
What you’ll love: They’re available in six sizes to make it easy to get the fit right. They offer blue and pink options in addition to the usual gray and nude. The fabric is extremely breathable to keep your feet from sweating and forming blisters. The affordable price allows for buying multiple pairs.
What you should consider: Some buyers feel the compression support is too tight, particularly if your feet are known to swell.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
CompressionZ Plantar Fasciitis Socks
What you need to know: These comfortable socks not only provide arch support but also offer compression in the heel and ankle to reduce pain.
What you’ll love: They work well for foot pain associated with plantar fasciitis, arthritis, edema and injuries. The design features a lightweight foot brace and compression in the arch, heel and ankle. They’re flexible and thin so you can wear them with insoles, splints and other orthotics.
What you should consider: Some buyers complain that the compression is so tight that the socks leave imprints on the feet that last for more than an hour.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Jennifer Blair writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
