Plantar fasciitis also sometimes referred to as heel spur is one of the main causes of heel pain in the foot. Heel pain can reduce your daily effectiveness, thereby, making the best foot massager for plantar fasciitis a necessity.
There are lots of foot massagers available to choose from and selecting the best one that will concentrate massage to the heel area of the foot is important for plantar fasciitis.
Plantar fasciitis (heel spur) is the inflammation of the band of tissues called the plantar fascia that extends from the heel to the toes. The tissues become irritated and inflamed, thereby leading to excruciating pain in the heel.
To mitigate the heel pain caused by plantar fasciitis and other foot issues that cause heel pain, we have reviewed ten of the best foot massagers for plantar fasciitis and other foot problems leading to heel pain.
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Contents at a Glance
How Does Foot Massager Help Fix Plantar Fasciitis and Heel Pain
Deep-kneading foot massage is one of the great ways to fix plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis is a result of excessive strain on the deep tissue under the foot, connecting the heel to the toes.
Deep tissue massage helps to loosen and relax the tightened muscle, tendons, ligament and fascia that has become too tightened and inflamed over time.
Since it is not possible to go to the spa every day, getting the best foot massager for plantar fasciitis can be a great investment, especially for athletes and other sports folks that are at risk of plantar fasciitis and heel pains.
How to Choose the Best Foot Massager for Plantar Fasciitis and Heel Spur
Plantar Fasciitis and heel spur produces excruciating pain in the heel and sole, including the foot arch. It is reasonable that a suitable foot massager will be one that can give deep-kneading massage to the heel, sole, arch and the toes of the feet.
Here are some of the things to look out for before choosing a foot massager to mitigate heel pain caused by plantar fasciitis and heel spur:
Foot Size Capacity
Will the foot massager accommodate your foot? You must buy a foot massager that correctly size your feet. All foot massagers have the range of the foot size they support, therefore, ensure your feet fall into the range of the specified size.
The Massage type
There are different types of massage provided by foot massagers. Massage types include: kneading, shiatsu, vibration, compression and some might have a heating function. A foot massager that will be suitable for heel pain caused by plantar fasciitis must be able to give these massages in an adjustable setting.
The type of the Foot Massager (Manual vs. Electric Foot Massager)
Types include the electric foot massager and the manual foot massager. Both types are suitable if the right product is selected. However, electric massagers are more costly, more convenient and have options for a heating function which the manual massager does not have.
Manual foot massagers require you to glide your feet on the roller and that might be stressful compared to electric foot massagers. They are also very light in weight, compact in shape and size that they are very perfect for transport. You can easily put a foot roller in your bag when going to the office or traveling.
Previous Buyer’s Review
The foot massager you want to buy has been used by some people in the past. They have more experience with how good, durable and effective the foot massager is. You must check reviews and ensure the product you want to buy has more positive comments from previous buyers.
See also: Best foot spa
10 Best Home Foot Massager for Plantar Fasciitis, Heel Spur and Heel Pain
#1. MedMassager MMF06 11 Speed Foot Massager
Quick Review
- 75-inches footpad
- Absence of heating function
- 1-year full warranty
- FDA Approved
- Adjustable speed between 1000-3700 rev/min.
MedMassager MMF06 11 Speed Foot Massager is one of the best electric foot massagers suitable for plantar fasciitis and other foot injuries resulting in pain especially in the sole and heel. The foot massager pride itself as the most powerful electric massager with an adjustable speed between 1000 to 3600 rev/min.
The safety of the user is guaranteed s the massage machine is approved by the FDA. It is not only used in the home, many Doctors and therapist also made it their choice as the massager is very effective at improving blood circulation to a tired foot.
With its full-size oscillating footpad and additional arch-bar ensure the sole of the feet is correctly massaged. The arch-bar is used for targeted pressure on a particular area and even ensures the arch of the feet are massaged properly.
While in use, you won’t need to keep adjusting its position; its rubber pad feet ensure it stayed glued on any floor type. One of the best home foot massager you can get and it doesn’t require any license before you can buy.
The foot massager is only suitable for the sole of the feet, including the heel region and cannot be used for ankle compression. Previous buyers have lots of positive comments with a large percentage rewarding the product with a complete 5-star rating on Amazon.
See also: Best Shiatsu foot massager with heat
#2. Foot Massage AREALER Kneading Shiatsu Therapy Feet Massage Machine
Quick Review
- Wireless remote and control panel
- Adjustable 5-working mode and pressure settings
- Foot compression with included airbag
- It is approved by the FDA
- Adjustable optional heating function.
Shiatsu massage is an effective massage technique that improves blood circulation, relieves pain and relaxes the tired muscle in the body. AREALER Kneading Shiatsu Therapy Feet Massage Machine gives the best of this massage type, making it one of the best foot massagers for plantar fasciitis, heel spur, heel pain, and neuropathy.
With amazing customers’ reviews on Amazon, the foot massager has sure given great satisfaction to past users. A proper look into its features also removes every doubt we might have had. It has five different working modes that can be adjusted to the user’s preferences.
The combination of kneading, rolling, scraping, air compression and heating function gives soothing massage to the entire feet of the user, up to the ankle level with its air compression. This helps relieve stress, fatigue, and tired muscle.
Controlling the massager is also very easy, with its remote control, you can set each feature at the comfort of your sitting position. Also, the foot liner can be removed for washing to keep it clean always. It is suitable for the US sizes 4.5-12. It is one of the best and also approved by the FDA.
#3. RENPHO Shiatsu Foot Massager Machine with Heat
Quick Review
- Adjustable kneading and compression intensity
- Optional Heating function
- Fit up to US-12 foot size
- Adjustable pressure level.
This foot massager is very affordable with high qualities. It is also an electric shiatsu foot massage machine with great features to give the feet the best massage therapy.
We love how portable and compact the foot massager is. You can easily carry it from one place to the other without feeling stressed or worked out as it is also light in weight.
The massager is built with 3-kneading and pressure settings level. You can adjust to your preference to match what you want per time by slightly adjusting its features until you are satisfied with the massage given. Its heating function can also be adjusted and it is optional if you do not want it.
The safety of the user is also secured. RENPHO Shiatsu Foot Massager Machine is timed to work for 15-30 minutes and automatic shut-off. There is also an option to keep using it for as long as you want.
It will also fit most foot sizes, though; it is recommended for people not having more than US-12 foot size. The foot massager is one of our top choices for plantar fasciitis, neuropathy, foot pain, ache and arch pain.
#4. Nekteck Foot Massager with Heat
Quick Review
- 6-massage heads and 18-nodes
- 3-level height adjustment
- Infrared Heating function
- Control and power button easy to access
This is one of the cheapest, lightweight, portable electric open-design foot massagers. Its compactness and lightness make it a great choice for traveling and easily moved from home to office. It has a built-in infrared heating function that produces gentle therapeutic heat for faster recovery and healing.
Nekteck Foot Massager with Heat is equipped with 6 massage heads and 18 nodes that move in a clockwise direction, giving a deep-kneading massage to the sole. It is very effective for heel pain and other foot issues that cause heel pain like plantar fasciitis, nerve soreness, and muscle tiredness.
Controlling its features is made easy due to the location of the control button. It is easily accessible with the toes of the foot, so you do not have to bend over to adjust its settings.
Also, the comfort of the user is important, the foot massager is made with an adjustable leg to increase or decrease the height of the massager to a level that feels more comforting to you. The built-in onboard cord storage and carry handle makes it easy to also carry from one place to the other.
See also: Best foot massager for high arches
#5. Cloud Massage Shiatsu Foot Massager Machine
Quick Review
- Angle bar/stand that can be adjusted
- For calf diameter of 5-inches
- Multiple and adjustable massage settings
- Optional heating function
Cloud Massage Shiatsu Foot Massager Machine is very versatile and one of the best foot massagers for plantar fasciitis, diabetic neuropathy and heel pain. It gives good shiatsu massage to the sole, arch, toes and ankle region to relieve stress and tension in the feet.
It does not only accommodate the feet but can be used for the calves, legs, and even the arm to mitigate excruciating pain and improve blood circulation. Also, it has a lot of positive feedbacks from previous users who have been satisfied using the foot massager.
The massager is also equipped with an adjustable stand that makes an adjustment to different angles and height possible. This also ensures you can use the massage machine in any position or angle you deemed fit. Its foot/calf area is 5-inches wide with air pressure cuffs inflated/deflated to fit most foot size.
Multiple settings ensure you can customize your massage therapy. It has adjustable rolling ball massagers, air compression and heating function for therapeutic heat. Its money-back guarantee gives buying assurance; you will get a 100% refund if you do not like the product.
#6. IDODO Foot Massager with Heat, Shiatsu, and Deep Kneading Electric Foot Massage Machine
Quick Review
- Adjustable settings for each massage
- Automatically shut-off after 15 minutes
- It fits up to US size 13
- 12-month buying assurance
- Lightweight and compact.
IDODO Foot Massager covers the entire feet to give all-round massage to the feet of the user. It is one of the best foot massager capable of giving deep-kneading, shiatsu massager, air compression and even offers warmth therapeutic heat for faster relief of the user.
Plantar fasciitis has symptoms visibly on the sole of the feet especially the heel region. However, foot massager offers even more. You will get a complete massage to take care of other foot regions, from ankles to toes with rotation balls, rolling stick, warming, and air compression.
The level of massage gotten can be adjusted to the user’s preference. There are 3-levels for deep-kneading mode, 3-air pressure level and 3-intensities, including the optional heating function. It is programmed to shut off automatically after usage of 15-minutes. You can use it for an extended time if you so wish, we, however, recommend a daily usage not more than 30 minutes.
Previous users have lots of beautiful comment to express how the foot massager has been a great buy for them. It also comes with 12-months money-back guarantee to give you buying assurance. It is one of our top choices for the best foot massagers for plantar fasciitis, heel spur, heel pain, sore feet, tired feet, and others.
Read also: Best foot massager for pregnancy
#7. Miko Shiatsu Foot Massager
Quick Review
- It offers deep-kneading shiatsu massage
- 5-adjustable pressure level settings
- 2-wireless remote control
- 1-year buying assurance.
Miko Shiatsu Foot Massager has been a versatile massage machine and most buyers’ choice. We were also very attracted to it during our search for the best foot massager for plantar fasciitis. It has a great buyer’s feedback and will be a good investment.
Like most other foot massagers on this list, it also has adjustable settings that ensure customized settings to the user’s choice. The foot massager is a great one for plantar fasciitis as it offers effective massage to the heel region of the foot which is very important for plantar fasciitis symptoms.
However, we do not recommend it for any ankle problems. Though it has air compression, the foot massager does not house the entire feet of the user and your ankle may not get proper air compression massage.
Controlling the machine is very easy through remote control. You can easily adjust its settings in the comfort of your sitting position. The breathable foot liner can also be removed for washing; it is very effective for neuropathy, diabetes, chronic pain, and other muscle tension.
#8. TISSCARE Foot Massager Machine with Heat
Quick Review
- Adjustable stand for convenience and comfort
- Side-grip handle for easy carriage
- Four Massage mode – kneading, vibration, rolling and heating.
Foot and calf massagers are very suitable at giving massage therapy to the feet and other parts like the calves, ankles, and legs. TISSCARE Foot Massager Machine is one of the best in this category and a very good one for plantar fasciitis.
Kneading shiatsu massage is very essential for plantar fasciitis and this massager is one of the best that offers this. It gives a great massage to the sole and the heel region, relieving heel pain, soothing tired feet and even offering therapeutic heat to heel faster through its heating function.
Carrying the foot massager is very easy through its handle. It is, however, a bulky machine and can be used alone at home, so, if you need something to carry to the office, this might not be a great choice. The ground tip is made with rubber that stays glued to the ground no matter the type of floor you place it on.
The massager is a little costlier than its other counterpart. It is also approved by the FDA; therefore, your safety is guaranteed. You have to look out for your calf diameter as this product will be very uncomfortable for people having more than that.
#9. Shiatsu Foot Massager Machine with Heat by TRIDUCNA
Quick Review
- 15/30 minutes auto-shut-off
- Adjustable massage settings
- Optional heating function
- Removable foot liner
This is one of the cheapest close-design foot massagers. It has every function you will need in a foot massager and it’s one of the best in offering deep-kneading shiatsu massage for the user. We discover how it effectively massaged the sole of the feet, including the heel, thereby making it a great choice for plantar fasciitis.
The foot massager is suitable for folks with large feet as it accommodates up to foot size US-12. It is also controlled through the control panel and one disadvantage is, you might have to bend to adjust the settings since it does not have wireless control.
The foot massager will massage the whole of your feet without leaving anywhere untouched – toes, soles, instep and the heel. With the combination of shiatsu, kneading, rolling, and air compression, the foot massager helps in relieving foot pain, aches, knots, and muscle tensions.
It is also programmed to shut off automatically after 15/30 minutes of usage for the safety of the user. Its sensitivity and massage level can also be adjusted to the user’s preference and its foot liner can be removed for washing to keep it clean all time.
#10. Theraflow Dual Foot Massager Roller
Quick Review
- Lightweight and portable
- 10 independent rollers
- Ridges optimally spaced for foot reflexology.
There are several foot rollers available but Theraflow Dual Foot Massager Roller is the best manual foot massager you can get for plantar fasciitis. Manual foot massagers are very cheap and effective, though they require you to glide your feet on the roller which might be more stressful compared to an electric foot massager.
It is the number one best-selling on Amazon under manual foot massager with over 4800 customer’s ratings. Over 70% gave a complete 5-star rating while the average rating is on 4.6of 5-star. It is a good foot roller and one of the best for plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, neuropathy or simply tired and sore feet after a hard day’s work.
The manual foot massager is equipped with 10independednt rollers, making it a suitable one for people with large feet. It is also light in weight and compact in shape to enhance easy carriage from one place to the other.
The foot massager is designed in an arch shape to mimic the shape of the foot for better massage experience to the whole part of the foot – sole, instep, arch and heel. it is one of the best foot massagers for heel pain.
Read: Best Massager for Neck and Shoulder | Best foot massager for runners
Causes of Plantar Fasciitis
Since plantar fasciitis is the inflammation or irritation of the tissues that extend from the heel region to the toes of the foot, then the causes of this are not far away from situations that trigger this inflammation. Some of the common causes of inflammation to the plantar fascia are:
Arch Structure
It is confirmed that folks with a too high arch and flat foot will result in plantar fasciitis. The overly high-arch feet and flat feet put pressure more on the heel of the feet due to unbalance weight distribution of the body on the feet. This puts pressure on the heel and ankle, thereby inflaming the plantar fascia (heel tissue).
Stressful Daily Activities
The feet are one of the most used parts of the body. We walk every day and that is inevitable but some people put more pressure on the feet due to the nature of their jobs or other factors that are personal to them. Some walk for a longer period while some have to stand for a longer time on hard surfaces. All these put pressure on the tissue in the heel region, leading to inflammation and irritation causing the heel pain.
Excessive Weight and Obesity
The weight of the body is carried by the feet and when obesity puts a lot of stress and pressure on the feet that carry the body. Most plus-size folks will always feel pain in their feet especially the heel region and that is due to the inflammation of the tissue around the heel.
Wrong Shoe Size
Wearing an improper shoe size might be detrimental to the feet. The shoe must rightly fit the feet and must have the correct support in the heel and arch region.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Shiatsu Foot Massager good for plantar fasciitis?
Shiatsu massage is one of the most common massage types and it is very popular at giving the best relaxation, improve blood circulation and easing tension in the muscle.
For plantar fasciitis, shiatsu foot massage is also one of the best therapies to be considered. A combination of this massage with other types of massage can prove to be more effective. Therefore, shiatsu foot massager is very great for plantar fasciitis.
Does a foot massager help plantar fasciitis?
YES, that is the whole aim of getting a foot massager, to give great massage therapy that soothes pain in the feet, especially in the heel region. Getting the best foot massager for plantar fasciitis will sure help. Read more about massage tips for plantar fasciitis here.
Can you use a foot massager too much?
Too much everything is bad, so the honest answer is YES, you can use a foot massager too much. We recommend daily usage of 15-30 minutes.
Conclusion
Massage is one of the best treatments for plantar fasciitis if done correctly by a massage therapist. However, visiting a therapist every day is never possible; therefore, you need to get the best foot massager that is suitable for plantar fasciitis.
We have taken our time to select the best available to help your searching process. They will be a great investment and will surely worth every penny spent.