'I Wish I Had Done The Research Sooner': These Gel Heel Cups Are A 'Lifesaver' For People With Foot Pain
Heel pain can feel brutal and unrelenting regardless of which shoes you wear, particularly if you have a condition like plantar fasciitis. In previous HuffPost reporting , one podiatrist told us that putting heel cushions in shoes can relieve heel pain and provide comfort. Luckily, they don't cost much — we found this gem for as low as $10 with rave reviews like, "These feel so good. I wish I had done the research sooner. I've been suffering all this time. Not anymore."
These gel heel inserts by Homergy are made with a soft, supportive silicone and elevate the heel to reduce strain and fatigue. Their self-adhesive base is flexible and can stick to the heels of many shoe styles, from sneakers to boots to high heels. They're also washable and reusable, so you can move them between different pairs of shoes (or buy multiple, if you prefer).
Reviewers say the heel cups have been a "lifesaver" for plantar fasciitis , Achilles tendonitis , flat feet and more. "These are the best inserts available for my plantar fasciitis," one reviewer wrote . "I've been dealing with this problem for 25 years and have tried every insert as well as customized orthotics and these inserts have worked the best."
Another pro is that, according to shoppers who have tried them, the inserts don't slide around in theirs shoes and the adhesive base actually works. One person said they last about two to four months before needing to be replaced, so while they're not permanent, you can get some good mileage out of them.
The heel cups can be inserted into sneakers, dress shoes, boots and more. Amazon
Reviewers who have tried tons of other shoe inserts also hold these heel cups in high esteem. "I recently got achilles tendonitis after walking a lot during a trip to Europe for several weeks. In addition to exercises, my physical therapist recommended a heel pad," one reviewer wrote . "I tried several that were all too hard, uncomfortable or too large. Like Goldilocks, these are just right. Very cushioned, fit perfectly in the heel portion of any show and they stay in place due to a sticky tape peel at the heel. I plan to buy more for all of my shoes."
Another had a similar experience, writing , "I wore over the counter orthotics and I was still having heel issues when I stood too long or worked out. I bought these and got rid of the orthotics. My knee and heel pain are gone. Shock absorbing is great when stepping down a curb or stairs."
You can try these heel cups in four colors: black, white, pink or blue. The blue color also comes in a pack of six (or three sets), as well as an enhanced version with 20% more support that's designed for people over 220 pounds. Get a pair for yourself and luxuriate in the feeling of heels that finally don't hurt in your favorite pair of shoes.
Promising reviews:
" I bought these after trying on much more expensive Spenco brand heel inserts. These feel exactly the same for half the price . I've been wearing them everyday now since May (now end of July) and they've not broken down or changed in any perceivable way . I've removed them once to wash them off to get rid of some sock fuzz that had accumulated on them. After the wash and dry, they feel like brand new again and that tackiness is restored which helps keep it anchored while you put your shoes on." — T. Leonard
"I do not know what I would do without these! They are such a saving grace :-) I've had plantar fasciitis surgery, and the doctor recommended these to prevent ever having to go through surgery again . I will tell you as a teacher I'm on my feet for over eight hours a day. These things are a godsend to help. Take the pressure off my feet!" — bphmum
"These were a game changer for me. I'm suffering from Plantar fasciitis in my right foot. I was directed by my orthopedist NOT To walk in my bare feet anymore. I had no idea what triggered this but the heel cups are in my bear paws boots AND sneakers this heel cup helps so much! I have bought several pair of insole inserts that say on the package Good they were for planter fasciitis sufferers, but they did nothing. These heel gel cups are wonderful and felt an immediate difference as soon as I stood up! This is a fantastic product!!! I have been suffering from this for the past 6 months and I have gotten NO relief even at PT in my right foot." — CLH
"I was diagnosed with Achilles tendonitis, and my doctor gave me a pair of gel heel inserts as part of my therapy. I wanted inserts for my other shoes, so I ordered these. They are every bit as durable as the doctor's pair, they fit all my shoes very well, and best of all they don't move around due to the tacky finish on the bottom . They stick to my shoes, but not to my socks. Very pleased." — Amazon Customer
" I have used these heel cushions for awhile as I had my right Achilles tendon reconstructed. These are the best of the several I've tried. The sticky strip definitely helps to keep it in place most of the time. If I move it from shoe to shoe too often, I add another strip of double sided tape. The cushion remains soft and does NOT thin." — Lisa J. Mackey
Check out these other podiatrist-recommended products for plantar fasciitis pain , from a list curated by the HuffPost Shopping team:
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A pair of arch support orthotic inserts
Two podiatrists told HuffPost that arch support shoe inserts are worth trying, although in some cases custom orthotics might be necessary.
These highly-rated insoles
use a high arch and deep heel cup to offer support and maintain correct foot positioning so that the heel is better protected from impact. The inserts are available in both men's and women's sizing.
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A pair of podiatrist-approved recovery sandals
A podiatrist previously spoke to HuffPost about the benefits of recovery shoes for conditions like plantar fasciitis, and on Oofos recovery shoes in particular.
These popular shoes — which have received the APMA seal of acceptance — uses a proprietary footbed and foam material in the construction of their footwear that's designed to absorb shock, reduce strain on joints and assist with active recovery. It's a technology that the brand claims absorbs 37% more impact than traditional footwear foam materials.
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A topical anti-inflammatory gel
One podiatrist also recommended applying topical anti-inflammatory cream to help with pain management. Our pick: Voltaren, a highly rated anti-inflammatory gel that is a non-steroidal and hydrating formula that imparts a cooling sensation when applied. It can help reduce stiffness and aches and improve mobility.
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