Heel cups are shoe inserts designed to provide extra support to the heels. They can be used as part of a corrective shoe program or in general to provide support for people who spend a lot of time on their feet. Many shoe stores carry heels, and they are also available at pharmacies, outdoor stores, and stores specializing in various medical devices. Before wearing heels, it is a good idea to consult a podiatrist who can confirm that they are necessary.
Many foot problems, such as plantar fasciitis, can be aggravated by inadequate support and poor absorption of the foot, especially the heel. Instead of replacing shoes as soon as the soles wear out, the use of corrective footwear devices such as heel cups can allow people to address the need for proper foot support without spending a great deal of money on shoes. The heel cups are designed to cushion the entire heel, from where it strikes the ground to the edges and back of the heel.
The heel cup padding can make it more comfortable for someone to walk, run and stand. The heel cups also act as shock absorbers, distributing the impact shock rather than allowing it to focus on one area of the heel. The padding can also be used to apply gentle compression to reduce swelling in the heel and ankle, a common problem for people who are on their feet all day or suffer from poor circulation.
People such as nurses, chefs and retail employees spend a lot of time on their feet every day and often develop heel pain and associated problems as a result. Wearing corrective footwear, including heels, can make it more comfortable to stand and work on your feet, contributing to better overall comfort as well as increased productivity at work. Cups can also improve posture by providing more complete support to the feet and legs.
When adjusting heels, it is important to ensure that they fit properly in a pair of shoes, without bending or compressing. Poorly fitting cups can irritate the foot. It's also important to confirm that the heels are comfortable on the foot, which may require some adjustments, along with some walking to confirm the fit. Podiatrists and movement specialists can help people position heels correctly and make additional recommendations for other corrective footwear products, including shoes.