There are several methods of treating plantar fasciitis and managing the pain effectively. One of the best ways to improve your foot pain is to apply compression. Compression increases blood flow, and increased blood flow means faster healing.
Wearing compression socks is one great way to ensure progress during your plantar fasciitis recovery. In this article, we’ll help you understand how compression socks work and offer a couple of the very best compression sock options available.
How Do Compression Socks Work?
As with any compression accessory, compression socks promote better circulation throughout the foot. The pressure the sock provides helps force blood back towards the heart so that more oxygen can keep making its way back to the injured area. The end result is less aching and discomfort for your feet, as long as you make compression part of your routine.
How Often Should You Wear Compression Socks?
For the best chance to improve plantar fasciitis pain, it’s best to wear compression socks most, if not all day, and take them off in the evenings. High quality plantar fasciitis socks are made to be worn for long periods of time, so don’t worry about wearing them out. If you need to, you can always buy multiple pairs if plantar fasciitis is a chronic issue for you.
Can You Run With Compression Socks?
Since most compression sleeves for athletes are made with mobility in mind, you can run while wearing them. The sock will continue to apply needed pressure to the foot while running.
If you are wearing medical-grade compression socks to deal with more extreme foot pain, it’s best to stop running until you can move down to a sock that provides a little less compression, and more mobility.
The Best Plantar Fasciitis Socks for Faster Pain Relief
1. CEP The Run Compression Socks ($39.99 – $59.99)
Features:
- Smart Dry Extreme Air Technology adapts to weather changes
- HEIQ clima-management for cooler skin
- Compression centered in foot arch and ankle
- Promoted lactic acid removal for continuous recovery
- Helps treat plantar fasciitis, shin splints and Achilles tendon pain
- Blister-free
- 83% Polyamide & 17% spandex blend
These socks are available for men and women and come in different lengths.
Sizing:
| Size | Calf Circumference (inches) |
| 2 | 9.5 – 12 |
| 3 | 12.5 – 15 |
| 4 | 15.5 – 17.5 |
2. OS1st FS6 Performance Foot Sleeve ($39.99)
Features:
- Targets plantar fasciitis and general pain and swelling
- Moisture-wicking
- Provides continuous stretch
- Arch support and Achilles/ankle stabilization
- Medical grade
Sizing:
| Size | Arch Circumference | Avg. Shoe Size |
| Medium | 7 – 10 inches | US: M6-9.5 | W7-10.5 |
| Large | 9 – 13 inches | US: M10-13 | W 11 Plus |
