Foot Compression Sleeves for Plantar Fasciitis
Most of us take the ability to walk without pain for granted. But if you suffer from Plantar Fasciitis (an inflammation of the tissues in the bottom of the foot,) tasks like walking your pet, playing with children or grandchildren, or even your job can be excruciating.
Fortunately, a foot compression sleeve can bring relief.
What is a Foot Compression Sleeve?
A compression sleeve for the foot is a sleeve that gently compresses your arch and (sometimes) heel. It slides on much like a sock, leaving your toes exposed and cradling the middle of your foot with gentle, pain-relieving comfort.
Because Plantar Fasciitis is caused by small tears in the tissues within the arch of your foot, healthy blood flow is needed to heal these tissues and bring relief. Compression sleeves can promote this healthy blood flow, bringing comfort to the heel and arch during activities.
What Benefits can a Foot Compression Sleeve Bring?
Now that you have a better idea of what a foot compression sleeve is, let’s take a look at the benefits it can bring:
- Decreased Pain – Promotes support and comfort when worn
- Improved Blood Flow – Necessary for healing, the compression aids in healthy blood flow
- Decreased Swelling – The pressure from the sleeve reduces excess fluid and reduces inflammation
- Alleviates Feelings of Tightness – By reducing swelling, the pressure on muscles and tissues are relieved
- Reduction in Post-Workout Pain – Compression sleeves control fluid buildup during intense activity
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Other Injuries Helped by Compression Sleeves
There are numerous injuries that can affect feet and ankles. Compression sleeves can also help:
Bunions – A hard, bone-like knot on the outer joint of the big toe
Ankle Sprains – General pain in the ankle usually from twisting or bending
Achilles Tendonitis – An injury to the tissue that links the heel bone and calf muscle
Muscle Soreness – Discomfort in the feet and calves resulting from strenuous activity
Comparing The Best Foot Compression Sleeves
SB SOX Foot Compression Sleeve
Summary: The SB SOX compression foot sleeve has high-coverage that extends from the toe base to the lower ankle, providing gentle compression to a large area of the arch and heel.
Pros: Lightweight fabric, ribbed arch support for comfort, durable, available in four sizes
Cons: Somewhat thin heel support, ankle cuff may be too tight for some
Copper Compression Copper Arch Support
Summary: The Copper Compression foot sleeve is shorter cuff-like sleeve that contains copper and goes over the arch area only.
Pros: Smaller and may be more comfortable for some, contains copper which may aid in pain relief
Cons: may rip or damage more easily, could be too tight on arch for some
Fondenn Plantar Fasciitis Socks
Summary: The Fondenn Plantar Fasciitis sleeve that covers heel, arch and ankle. It’s designed with durable fabric.
Pros: Recommended for any level of activity, full coverage, spandex and nylon materials for less deformation
Cons: May be too tight for some
Dr. Arthritis Doctor Developed Copper Foot Compression Sleeve
Summary: The Dr. Arthritis Foot Compression Sleeve product includes a book of information on injury relief written by doctors and offers full coverage with less emphasis towards the toes.
Pros: Sits farther from toe joints which may make for more comfort at the ends, developed by doctors
Cons: Sits higher on the ankle which could cause circulation problems for those with diabetes and other circulatory issues
Bryson Foot Compression Arch Support
Summary: The Bryson foot compression Arch support is a cuff support brace, this sleeve boasts high arch support and is low-coverage, leaving the heel and ankle circulation untouched.
Pros: Easy to put on, comfortable arch support
Cons: May be too tight for wider feet, contains latex
While your doctor should be consulted for your foot pain, compression sleeves can bring comfort back to your everyday life.
References:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/plantar-fasciitis/doctors-departments/ddc-20354853
https://www.joionline.net/trending/content/how-reduce-swelling
https://luckyfeetshoes.com/how-compression-socks-help-plantar-fasciitis-pain/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bunions/symptoms-causes/syc-20354799
Intermittent calf and foot compression increases lower extremity blood flow
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/achilles-tendinitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20369020
Disclaimer: The information provided in this post is for educational purposes only. This is not a substitute for a medical appointment. Please refer to your physician before starting any exercise program.