Plantar fasciitis is a common condition among runners, people who wear shoes with inadequate support or overweight people. It’s an inflammation of the fascia ligament – a thick band of tissue – located from the heel of your foot to the toes.
Once thought by doctors to be brought about by heel spurs, the condition is now believed to be a result of other causes and risk factors instead.
Not only does it occur in one or both feet at the same time, but it also causes stabbing pain generally in the heel area of the foot, while in severe cases it causes swelling along with the pain.
If you tend to feel pain when you first get up in the morning, which is exacerbated with long periods of standing, you could be struggling with plantar fasciitis.
Symptoms And Causes Of Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is usually indicated by a stabbing pain in the heel area of your feet and gets worse especially when you take your first steps after waking up from bed in the morning.
However, it could also be triggered when you get up after sitting or by prolonged standing and gets worse after exercising. This happens because of tension and stress on the plantar fascia, which can cause small tears on the ligament, or repeated tearing and stretching that could inflame or irritate it.
Not everyone is prone to getting plantar fasciitis, but it’s believed to be a risk factor among females between the ages of 40 and 60, obese people, and people with flat feet or high arches, and tight Achilles tendons.
Also included on the list of causes or risk factors are people who often wear high-heeled shoes, have unusual foot position or walk styles, and those who spend many hours on their feet every day.
Diagnosis And Treatment Of Plantar Fasciitis
There are several things your doctor will ask about besides the symptoms, like where you’re having the pain and how often.
Sometimes, he or she will request that you get an imaging test done to ensure there’s no other cause for the problem. Such tests include an x-ray, to rule out arthritis or bone fractures and/or an MRI to check for fractures.
Among the common treatments for the condition include simple home remedies like icing the area, resting from things that make the pain worse, wearing night splints to stretch the calf and foot as you sleep, wearing supportive inserts or shoes with extra cushioning, and taking pain-relieving anti-inflammatories.
You could also try physical therapy like some exercises that can strengthen leg muscles to make your heel and ankle more stable by stretching your fascia and Achilles tendon.
Alternatively, you can go with a foot massager for plantar fasciitis and get quick relief and therapy anytime you need it.
Ignoring plantar fasciitis may hinder your regular activities as it could lead to chronic heel pain, or knee/hip/back issues when you change your walking style to relieve the pain.
By using a foot massager for plantar fasciitis, you can relieve and manage the pain, which is why we’ve rounded up the best foot massagers for plantar fasciitis available today and learn the art of foot massage for yourself.
Best Foot Massager For Plantar Fasciitis
There are a ton of foot massagers for plantar fasciitis that make the task of picking the best one daunting.
In no particular order, here’s our compilation of the 10 best foot massagers for plantar fasciitis. At the end of the list, we’ve put together a buyer’s guide so you can have a checklist of things to consider before you make a purchase decision as you shop around for one.
1. TheraFlow Dual Foot Massager Roller
TheraFlow offers high-quality massagers with great features and every detail set with perfection. It’s designed to massage both your feet simultaneously, which makes it a good choice if you have heel pain on both feet.
Its features include 10 rows of rollers that you can use for any foot size and an arc design that follows your foot’s natural contours and patterns so it’s comfortable and relaxing to use.
There are large pegs on the last two for deeper tissue massage and stimulation to counter heel pain. The all-natural wood foot massager sports a deep kneed design on the foot arch and sole for greater comfort and offers a good footing for people with plantar fasciitis.
The roller at the bottom is stationary so your feet will roll over the wooden roller. This way, you can place the massager on a flat spot like a carpet or rough surfaces, and it won’t move while you massage your feet on it.
Pros
- Works for both feet
- Stimulates blood flow
- Good for high arch
- Durable and high-quality build
Cons
- Rollers may squeak
2. MedMassager MMF06 Foot Massager
This is another excellent foot massager for plantar fasciitis and it’s used mainly by therapists and professionals.
The powerful rechargeable foot massager has a high speed and is regarded as one of the most powerful options on the market, with high recommendations for neuropathy foot care.
Its features include 11 high speeds (1000-3000rpm), a pressure point targeting surface, and an oscillating footpad with an arch bar designed at an angle for maximum support as your feet are massaged. It can also stimulate circulation in your feet and legs.
Also included are gel pads for using the massager or non-carpeted surfaces and a quiet motor. You can use it for acute or severe foot and/or leg pain.
The pressure point targeting surface is known to improve circulation and the arch bar stimulates toes, heels, and arches. You can also use it on your shins and calves, and with feet of any size because of its full-sized oscillating footpads.
Pros
- 11 different speeds
- Stimulates blood circulation
- Used by therapists and professionals
- Full-sized oscillating foot pads make it suitable for any foot size
Cons
- Lacks automatic heating and timer feature
3. Beurer Shiatsu Foot Massager
This foot massager is an excellent choice thanks to its amazing features such as the 18 rotating massage heads that offer a relaxing yet exhilarating massage for deep penetrating foot massages.
You can adjust your feet easily with great comfort and satisfaction thanks to the kneading action of the massage plus switchable heat settings guaranteed to take away the pain from plantar fasciitis.
The massager grinds your sore feet into its spinning balls making pain fade away with each minute you massage them. The heat settings come with various modes that you can activate or deactivate based on the massage you want to get as you relax at home.
There are also different kneading options you can choose from, which make this massager a favorite among users who want a high-quality massage for pain relief.
Pros
- Variety of kneading and heat options
- Deep penetrating and relaxing massages
- Good size
- Can be used in any location
Cons
- Some users say it may not be durable
- May not be suitable for people with high arches
4. uComfy Shiatsu Foot Massager with Heat
It vibrates and kneads, but also offers heated air massages that are relaxing and soothing. The process begins by massaging the foot slowly at different levels you can select and change as you wish for a firmer massage.
A heat setting option is available that allows you to relax and enjoy a soothing massage, and when you’re done, you can just switch it off manually or use the auto-shutoff feature that goes off after 15 minutes. It uses infrared light that’s quite safe and offers a warm surrounding for your feet.
Also included are 5 different modes depending on your preferences and requirements. Plus, you can activate or deactivate different modes when you want. For the utmost satisfaction, the massager activates rollers with the kneading function, while the pressure system stimulates blood flow.
It comes in a round and oval model to trigger pressure points for better relief from the stress that causes heel pain. Two massage styles are available – Shiatsu and Vibration – both of which you can combine with heat for better therapeutic effects and versatility.
Pros
- Improves blood circulation
- Five different intensity modes
- Two massaging styles available
- Easy to use
- Uses foot reflexology
- Hygienic, washable foot cover
- Two model options available
- Easy to clean and maintain
Cons
- Controls inconveniently placed at the center
- Heavy and hard to move around
5. Nekteck Foot Massager with Heat
This electric foot massager sports six massage heads with 18 rotating nodes so you can massage the different pressure points on your feet.
You can use it to relieve pressure and pain, with or without the heat function. Its controls are easy to manipulate with your hands or even your toes, so you don’t have to keep bending to adjust or switch off, or reach for the remote control.
Its intensity and speed aren’t adjustable, but you can change the height if you want to adjust massage intensities to three different heights based on your preferences. Plus, if you feel the pressure is too much, just place a towel in between nodes and your heel until you’re used to it.
However, if you have high arches, the massager’s rolling motion won’t relieve the plantar fasciitis. Thankfully, the heating option offers a soothing effect so you can relax after a hard day’s work.
This model is corded and isn’t as heavy as some options on this list, so you can carry it with you on the go, provided you have a power outlet.
Pros
- Affordable
- Electric
- Optional heat function
- Portable
- Variety of massage heads for pressure points
- Can be manipulated with hands or toes
Cons
- Users with high arches may not benefit from it
6. Miko Shiatsu Foot Massager
This affordable, modern-looking foot massager for plantar fasciitis offers a good foot and calf massage for any user.
It sports an ultra-sleek design and is lightweight, which makes it the preferred foot massager for travelers. It also offers five different pressure levels so you can adjust it to a rolling motion, while the air force and kneading motion relieve pain by pressing on several pressure points.
Thanks to its feet chambers, you can massage the sides and bottom of your feet, while the shiatsu nodes keep your feet pain-free and healthy by helping with the recovery of injured ligaments.
It also has two wireless remote controls you can use to adjust heat and pressure for convenience, and alternating kneading and vibration for faster healing from plantar fasciitis. A removable cloth cover is available that’s washable for better maintenance of the device.
You can use it for about 15 minutes a day, but no more than 30 as it may cause pain and discomfort.
Pros
- Kneading and vibration options available
- Portable and lightweight
- Suitable for any foot size
- Remote controls for temperature and pressure available
- Compact and space-saving
- Enhances blood circulation
Cons
- Massages can be quite intense
- May not be durable
7. HoMedics FMS-200H Shiatsu Elite Dual Foot Massager
If you’re a beginner and want an affordable yet convenient foot massager for plantar fasciitis to begin with, the HoMedics FMS 200-H is a great option.
It offers high relaxation levels so you can use it with your swellings and pain, and the features are pretty basic without all the bells and whistles found on other foot massagers.
The open design requires you to lean forward to increase the pressure or intensity of the massage, and there aren’t any tilts so people with high arches may not find this effective.
However, it’s lightweight, easy to use and has deep kneading action for a stimulating massage.
It also has four massage heads with innovative counter-rotating technology for a lighter massage and toe-touch control for convenient activation of massages using your toes.
A deep-kneading Shiatsu is available to soothe and relax your feet, plus other options like 18 massage nodes for maximum control and six rotational heads for dual massages.
Pros
- Simple and straightforward usage
- Gentle massages for aching muscles
- Affordable
- Deep kneading action available with massage nodes
- Offers heat therapy and massage altogether
- Auto-shutoff available
- Versatile, compact and lightweight
Cons
- Not suitable for diabetics
- Massage too basic
8. AREALER Kneading Shiatsu Therapy Foot Massage Machine
This foot massager offers a complete package of benefits and features so you not only get value for your money, but also a good and relaxing massage to relieve plantar fasciitis.
It combines the benefits of rolling, heating, kneading, scraping and air compression for a soothing and comfortable massage while improving blood circulation, and releasing fatigue and stress.
Among its features are 5 pressure settings and working modes that target all your body joints, so you can use it for plantar fasciitis, neuropathy, chronic pains, diabetic patients, and arthritis.
Detachable breathable covers are included for easier maintenance, and they’re easy to clean so you can keep the massager hygienic for each time you or a family member uses it.
It’s also lightweight and fashionable so you can go with it anywhere, and the overheating protection shuts the machine down when the temperature goes beyond the safety levels.
The machine is also FDA, RoHS, and CE certified, plus it’s environment-friendly.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Compact
- Durable design
- Breathable and washable cover
- Five pressure settings
- Wireless remote access
- Suitable for different conditions
Cons
- Unsuitable for beginners
9. Moji Foot Pro, Compact Foot Massager
This foot massager is an upgrade from the wooden type like TheraFlow because it’s made of metal, but there’s a plastic option too. It’s also portable, lightweight, and convenient so you can use it on the go.
It features six stainless steel spheres for a rotating massage as pressure is applied to the area you’re experiencing heel pain. You can trigger pressure points in the heel or arches by altering the massager’s place and apply as much pressure as you want.
A slip-resistant base ensures it doesn’t move or slip while you’re massaging, so you can use it on any surface whether you’re sitting or standing. It’s also easy to clean using alcohol wipes but you can wear socks when using it to avoid any contamination.
Diabetics who don’t want to get more infections can use this foot massager, while those suffering from neuropathy and plantar fasciitis will get relief from the pain and stress.
The versatile foot massager can be used on other parts of the body like the shoulders and neck and can be used warm or cold with no need for electricity.
Pros
- Affordable and versatile
- Useful on any surface
- Lightweight, compact and portable
- Can be used by diabetic patients
- Relieves sore and hot feet
Cons
- Some users think it’s not helpful
10. Medi-Rub Foot Massager 2000 Plus
This foot massager for plantar fasciitis is fairly new but it’s already making strides in the market, impacting people’s lives.
It has full-sized oscillating padding with a high arch bar and high-pressure points for healthy blood circulation. It’s used by therapists and doctors and is recommended for patients with neuropathy and diabetes.
Its rugged yet reliable design makes it durable for longer service and stimulates your feet and calves for improved relief and healing for heel pain.
It’s distinguished by its two-speed heavy-duty motors that prove useful for neuropathy and diabetic patients, plus it’s very effective against swellings, leg cramps, and aches in toes and heels.
The pressure point targeting surface ensures you get improved circulation while massaging your feet, and the ergonomic design ensures you’re comfortable.
It strikes the perfect balance between smooth and quiet operation while remaining secure and safe during use. Gel pads are included so you can place it on non-carpet floors without slipping during usage.
Pros
- Maintenance-free
- Stimulates blood circulation
- Unique design
- Recommended by professionals and doctors
Cons
- Lacks heat therapy
- May be pricey
Buyer’s Guide: What To Look For In A Foot Massager For Plantar Fasciitis
Before you can pick out a good foot massager for plantar fasciitis, there are certain things you need to keep in mind as you shop.
The first thing to check is whether or not you suffer from plantar fasciitis, whether the pain is mild or severe, and your end goal.
With these in mind, here are the factors to consider as you go out to purchase your foot massager.
Massager Type
Check whether the foot massager you want operates manually or using electricity or both, or the Shiatsu type.
- Manual massagers have rollers you can roll your feet over, are inexpensive and you work them manually as you move your feet back and forth.
- Electric foot massagers use a motor that vibrates with rolling or oscillating heads. They can also have heat and variable speed settings and run on electricity.
- Shiatsu foot massagers use the Japanese kneading method with vibrations, rotating heads and heating elements working together like the hands of a trained masseuse. They tend to be pricier but offer the best value for money.
Size
Some massagers are lightweight, compact, and portable so you can carry on the go. However, others are bulky and big and only suitable for office or home use.
Technique
Check how the tool massages your feet by looking at the description to see if it’s a rolling, scraping or kneading technique.
Extras
Some foot massagers offer heat and variable speed adjustments, gel pads, oscillating footpads, spa capability, and more. Check for the one that offers extras you need.
Wrap Up
Most people generally spend lots of time standing, and after a long day, the feet tend to be sore and ache all over.
Foot massages are a godsend as they help ease the tension and stress in the feet, while slowly healing them over time.
If you’re experiencing foot pain or plantar fasciitis, a good foot massage will not only rejuvenate your feet but relieve your body’s aches and pains.
The benefits of foot reflexology can be achieved by using a good foot massager and any of the 10 we’ve reviewed here are a good place to start you off.
Diana Paul is a certified nutritionist who writes for leading health blogs. She is a master herbalist, yoga teacher, forager, and wild-crafting writer She is focused on helping people transform life blocks to opportunities. Based in NYC, she often holds health seminars and lectures.