Latest news with #physicaltherapy
Forbes
3 days ago
- Health
- Forbes
The Best Hoka Shoes For Plantar Fasciitis, According To Medical Experts
Plantar fasciitis is a painful condition that can make it harder to run or exercise, to stand for extended periods and even make walking more painful and difficult. The best Hoka shoes for plantar fasciitis can't cure your feet of their condition, but they can help mitigate the symptoms, letting you better enjoy everyday activities as you work to treat the inflammation of the plantar fascia tissue. And while we named the Hoka Clifton 10 the best Hoka shoe for plantar fasciitis overall, there are numerous other options to consider, based on your condition and your preferred activities. The best Hoka shoes for plantar fasciitis offer cushioning and support to ease your symptoms. In order to recommend the best Hoka shoes for plantar fasciitis, we spoke with board-certified podiatrists and a doctor of physical therapy. Their insights are valuable to help you choose the best Hoka shoes for plantar fasciitis relief, and also offer a better understanding of the causes, symptoms and treatments of this painful and frustrating condition. Hoka Weight: 9.8 ounces per shoe | Heel drop: 8 mm | Midsole: Molded EVA foam | Upper: Breathable Jacquard W. Zach Smith, a doctor of physical therapy and founder and owner of HIDEF Physical Therapy, says: 'My favorite Hoka for plantar fasciitis is the Clifton. It has enough stability to provide support for the foot but also enough cushion to spread out the ground contact force, which then reduces the force at the plantar fascia.' That was high enough praise for this lightweight and highly versatile shoe to be on our radar. When both of the other experts we spoke to—both podiatrists—also had high praise for the Hoka Clifton, we zeroed in on this shoe as the top contender for the top spot. The shoe has a soft and highly flexible Jacquard woven upper that comfortably but securely holds your foot in place, thus letting the thick cushioning of the compression-molded EVA foam midsole offer excellent underfoot support. The 8mm drop is ideal for running, jogging and various exercises, but is a bit much if you plan to wear these shoes primarily for walking. (Or for a job that involves long hours of standing.) The durable and nonmarking outsole has treading suitable for use on the street or track or on the treadmill and at the gym. Overall, the padding and support in this shoe gives your foot a plush feel and greatly relieves the pressure and pain of plantar fasciitis, letting you continue with physical activities. Amazon Weight: 8.2 ounces per shoe | Heel drop: 5 mm | Midsole: Super critical foam | Upper: Breathable Jacquard The Mach 6 shoe from Hoka weighs just 8.2 ounces—scarcely more than a pound. That light weight translates into faster speed as you get in those runs, plantar fasciitis be damned. The shoe offers a good balance of support, cushioning and responsiveness, making it suitable for use both in mitigating the pain of inflamed plantar fascia tissue and for helping propel you forward. One critical factor here is the ultralight but very supportive super critical foam midsole, so-called thanks to the use of a supercritical fluid—in this case the liquid form of nitrogen, injected into the EVA foam. That midsole both cushions against impacts and spreads out the pressure during footfalls and helps spring you ahead—that's the whole 'responsiveness' thing. Note that many people who are generally happy with the Mach 6 say that the model tends to run a bit small, so consider going up by half a size to play things safe. Amazon Weight: 8.1 ounces per shoe | Heel drop: 5 mm | Midsole: Molded EVA foam | Upper: Flat knit If you're headed to the gym for some serious circuit training and you don't want your foot and heel pain to put a damper on things, consider putting Hoka Arahi 7 shoes on your feet. These shoes provide both pain relief and excellent stability and control, keeping your feet and ankles safer as you go through any number of movements and positions. Board-certified podiatrist Dr. Jason Gold of the Foot, Ankle & Leg Vein Center says, 'The fit, comfort, cushioning and support is just right with the Arahi 7. It's also meant to provide motion control, so it's a good choice for people with flat feet or rolling ankles, which are common causes of plantar fasciitis flares.' The shoes have a moderate 5mm heel-to-toe drop, so they're fine for use jogging or walking, and a built in 'J-frame' helps keep your foot centered, preventing too much pronation or supination (which is when the foot rolls inward or outward, respectively), both of which can exacerbate symptoms of plantar fasciitis. The Arahi 7s have a slightly narrower toebox than many other Hoka shoes (and shoes from other brands), so if you need extra splay for comfort, be forewarned. Amazon Weight: 10.5 ounces per shoe | Heel drop: 5 mm | Midsole: SCF foam | Upper: Breathable knit Many dedicated running shoes have a large heel-to-toe drop, which is the height difference between the elevated heel and lower toe. A drop of eight to 10 mm can help propel a runner forward, but that's too much of a drop for walking, which requires a more natural gait for comfort and for foot health, especially when your feet are already afflicted with a condition. 'A slightly elevated heel-to-toe drop [can] lessen the strain on the Achilles tendon and the fascia,' says Dr. Naim Shaheed of the Ankle & Foot Centers of America. The five mm drop of the Bondi 9s is ideal for many people who take long walks and the SCF (super critical foam) midsole greatly reduces the pain of plantar fasciitis. Gold says of these shoes: 'I recommend the Bondi often because it's one of the most cushioned shoes Hoka offers. It provides generous, soft padding underfoot, and that's exactly what sore heels and arches need. And the wide, stable base helps maintain alignment of the foot while you're walking.' These shoes are a tad heavier than most of the others we're covering, but they're still light enough to walk for miles. And any heat that builds up during those long walks is readily released through the generous venting in the knit upper. Amazon Weight: 9.1 ounces per shoe | Heel drop: 6 mm | Midsole: EVA foam | Upper: Creel Jacquard mesh Excessive pronation, which is when the foot rolls inward with each step, can be a problem all on its own, putting excess strain on muscles, ligaments and tendons, and it can exacerbate symptoms of plantar fasciitis. Fortunately, the Gaviota 5 shoe from Hoka can help prevent this foot rolling. 'If you want something with a bit more structure and support, the Gaviota 5 is a great pick," says Gold. He adds, 'Its 'H-Frame' construction holds the foot in place without feeling overly rigid. For those patients who tend to overpronate or require a touch more guidance when walking, I rate it.' The Gaviota 5 has the Seal of Acceptance from the American Podiatric Medical Association and receives stellar reviews from users, who praise its stability and comfort. The upper's creel Jacquard mesh is an engineered, polyester-based mesh fabric that's often used in running shoes and is characterized by its flexibility, soft feel and breathability. This is a pricier Hoka than most, but if you have plantar fasciitis and a tendency to overpronate, it's worth the price. Hoka Weight: 6.6 ounces per shoe | Heel drop: 5 mm | Midsole: EVA foam, memory foam | Upper: Dynamic mesh A recovery shoe is a type of footwear specifically designed to aid in the recovery process after intense physical activity or long periods of standing, but they can also bring great relief from chronic conditions like plantar fasciitis. Recovery shoes are typically more comfortable than standard shoes and offer features like enhanced cushioning, support and pressure distribution to promote faster healing and reduce muscle fatigue. The Ora Recovery Shoe 2 from Hoka is a lightweight slip-on shoe with a cushioned and contoured midsole and a dose of memory foam added under the heel for even more comfort. While perfect for indoor wear like a comfortable slipper, you can indeed use these shoes while you're out and about. They have an elastic band at the ankle that adds support and keeps the shoes on your feet, and they have a 5mm heel-to-toe drop, which is ideal for walking. Hoka Weight: Varies | Heel drop: 5 to 8 mm | Midsole: 35% sugarcane EVA foam, memory foam | Upper: Ripstop and webbing Hoka's Project Transport Shoe is where style meets support and comfort. While most Hoka shoes look fine in a sporty way, few people would call them stylish. These shoes, on the other hand, make a statement even as they cradle your feet and offer the cushioning and stability you need when you have foot ailments. And don't think that because they were made with style in mind that they lack in technical chops: The Project Transport shoes have a tough Vibram rubber outsole with a tread pattern suitable for use on multiple types of terrain, while the EVA midsole, made with renewable sugarcane, offers plenty of arch support and foot comfort. The shoes lace up for a proper fit but then a zippered closure covers the laces, leaving the upper looking sleek and modern. And highly reflective detailing on the exterior of that upper catches plenty of light at night, both helping you stay visible and offering just a bit more of a fashion statement. Note that while Hoka claims these have a 5mm heel drop, many reviewers feel that it's closer to 8mm. The gear team at Forbes Vetted conducts extensive research, expert interviews, close reading of customer reviews and, when possible, hands-on testing of all products we cover. Our editors and writers have extensive experience reviewing footwear of all kinds, from the best workout shoes for women to the best dress sneakers that are still comfortable. To make sure we recommended the best Hoka shoes for plantar fasciitis, we broke things down by category—the best Hoka shoes for running, walking, recovery and more. We also relied on the expertise of the Forbes Vetted gear team and the experts we interviewed. Regardless of the type of Hoka shoe—or shoe from another brand—that a plantar fasciitis patient ultimately chooses, the shoe must have the following attributes in order to help mitigate the affliction. The midsoles of every shoe covered here provide excellent arch support, which is critical for people suffering from plantar fasciitis. Good arch support helps distribute weight evenly and absorb shock, reducing pressure on the plantar fascia. Ample heel, midsole and forefoot cushioning absorbs shock and provides comfort to the feet, reducing the pressure concentrated on inflamed tissue and bringing some pain relief. Hoka shoes are renowned for their cushioned feel. A heel-to-toe drop of between 5mm and 8mm is considered the sweet spot for plantar fasciitis relief, and every Hoka shoe we included here falls somewhere in that range. Just as you need ample support and cushioning under the foot when you are dealing with plantar fasciitis, you also want a flexible and comfortable upper that lets the foot move naturally. We looked for Hoka shoes with woven and flexible uppers that would keep a foot secure but not restrained. 'Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain, often resulting from strain on the plantar fascia—a thick band of tissue that supports the arch of the foot,' says Shaheed. It can be caused by strain created by repeated activities like running or dancing. Additionally, it can be caused by wearing ill-fitting footwear, excess weight or advancing age. Yes, choosing the right shoes can significantly help manage and alleviate symptoms of plantar fasciitis. Shoes with good arch support, cushioning and a wider toe box can reduce stress on the plantar fascia. With one caveat about toebox size, all of the Hoka shoes selected here meet those criteria. Heel-to-toe drop in running shoes affects plantar fasciitis because it influences how weight is distributed during foot strikes, potentially exacerbating or alleviating pain. Lower-drop shoes encourage a midfoot or forefoot strike, while higher drops promote a heel strike, impacting the load on the plantar fascia. A higher drop (as in much above 8mm) may encourage a heel strike, potentially increasing stress on the plantar fascia, especially during activities like running or walking. This can be counterproductive for plantar fasciitis.
WIRED
3 days ago
- Health
- WIRED
The Best Massagers for People Who Don't Have Time to Relax
Skip to main content Don't cancel physical therapy just yet, but these portable, at-home massagers might be the hack you need after stressful days. All products featured on WIRED are independently selected by our editors. However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links. The best massagers shouldn't feel like a luxury reserved for special occasions. Getting some tension out of your shoulders should be as accessible as your morning coffee. After all, between work, workouts, and the existential crisis that is life, who isn't carrying muscle tension somewhere? I've dedicated countless hours to trying (almost) every type of massage tool out there. Testing these contraptions might sound like the dream gig, but it's not all bliss. Some felt like having a personal therapist at my disposal. Others like they were designed to tenderize meat. A few even led me to question the very choices that brought me to this moment. The good news? I've rounded up the best massagers for all bodies and budgets. These options deliver on their promises to soothe, stimulate, and shiatsu. For more wellness recommendations, read our guides to the Best Theraguns and Therabody Tools, Best Posture Correctors, and Everything You Need for Your Yoga Practice. AccordionItemContainerButton I spent eight months (and counting) testing dozens of massagers across a variety of categories, including (but not limited to) percussive therapy guns, foot massagers, and compression goggles. To assess performance in everyday situations, I incorporated them into regular routines: post-workout recovery, desk-bound workdays, and nighttime wind-downs. I evaluated each device based on build quality, ease of use, and overall value. This involved checking motor strength and consistency, battery life (if applicable), the functionality of extra features, and how effectively each massager targets specific muscle groups. I also considered individual body types and sensitivities. Lastly, I prioritized long-term reliability and customer support. This meant reviewing warranty policies, user reviews, and brand transparency. Massage guns provide percussion therapy that enhances blood circulation, alleviates muscle fatigue, and minimizes soreness after workouts or tiring days. I recommend the Hypervolt 2 to everyone who isn't an athlete; if you are, it's worth investing in the Theragun Pro Plus ($625). However, the Hypervolt 2 is much more affordable, weighs just 1.8 pounds, and offers ample power thanks to its brushless 60-watt motor. It features three speed settings and five massage heads (flat, bullet, fork, ball, and cushion) to address different muscle groups. It can connect to the Hyperice app via Bluetooth for guided routines, provides up to three hours of battery life, and is TSA-approved for carry-on. The Theragun Mini ($149) is my favorite mini massage gun. For more Theraguns and percussive massage devices, check out our guides to the Best Therabody Tools and Best Massage Guns. Specs Battery Life ~3 hours Return Policy 30 days Warranty Info 1 year Therabody SmartGoggles (2nd Generation) Eye massagers are well-liked for improving blood circulation around the eyes and reducing fatigue caused by long work hours. Therabody's second-generation SmartGoggles provides an ideal solution for weary eyes and headaches. According to the company's study, participants averaged 4 percent more sleep when using them before bedtime, 10 percent reported better sleep, and overall, users noted improved sleep quality. Additionally, 82 percent of users felt less stressed, and 71 percent reported lower anxiety levels. These goggles are a step up from the original model (9/10, WIRED Recommends) and maintain the same three settings: Focus, Sleep, and SmartRelax. The heating feature also encourages tear production, offering relief for dry eyes. Compatible with the Therabody app, users can select specific sessions while enjoying calming ambient soundscapes. I often find myself dozing off during a 20-minute session. Though I don't often suffer from migraines, they would make for an effective blackout sanctuary in a quiet, dark space. Specs Battery Life ~3 hours Return Policy 30 days Warranty Info 1 year Normatec Go is a portable version of Hyperice's air compression system. Whether you're a frequent traveler or a dedicated runner, the Normatec Go effectively reduces inflammation and blood lactate levels without requiring a full suit. It is ideal for athletes, individuals experiencing poor circulation, and those suffering from chronic pain. These calf-specific sleeves eliminate hoses and control hubs, offering a mobile solution you can wear while cooking or standing at your desk. Each wrap provides 360-degree dynamic air compression to your calves, utilizing Hyperice's zone-based pulsing to enhance blood flow. With three overlapping compression zones and seven intensity levels, the Go also connects via Bluetooth to the Hyperice app. The Normatec Elite ($1,099) are Hyperice's premium full-length compression boots; we haven't tested them, but they are a luxe choice if you're considering full-leg coverage. Specs Battery Life ~3 hours Return Policy 30 days Warranty Info 1 year The Chirp RPM Mini is a handheld massager that combines rolling and percussive therapy. It's essentially like an electric rolling pin for your entire body, featuring three speed settings and a multi-grip handle. This cordless device is equipped with six free-spinning massage heads, 24 massage nodes, and nonabrasive rollers that won't pinch your skin. While it's effective for the whole body, I particularly enjoy using it on my calves, biceps, forearms, and palms. I find it to be gentler and more soothing on my smaller muscle groups compared to percussive guns. The battery life is impressive as well, lasting up to four hours on a single charge. I don't think it justifies the price tag of $150—but it's TSA-approved for carry-on and comes with a portable case. Specs Battery Life ~4 hours Return Policy 30 days Warranty Info 1 year Bob and Brad's EZBack Massager is a back massager but also a neck massager, a shoulder massager, and even a lower body massager with a little bit of imagination. It has four kneading nodes with bidirectional movement that mimics a shiatsu massage, three intensity settings, and a heat therapy option that feels nice but probably doesn't do much for your sore muscles. It straps to your office chair for a more ergonomic massage experience, uses a remote control, and is designed with a 15-minute auto shut-off to prevent overheating. You can also omit the straps if you'd like to use them while lounging on the couch, but you'll need to sit near a plug, unfortunately. A cordless version is available, but I have not tested it. Specs Battery Life N/A (corded) Return Policy 30 days Warranty Info 2 years If you experience daily aches or a sore lower back, a heated wrap is helpful, and a vibrating one is even better. The Venom 2 Back provides consistent heat distribution across the lower back with three adjustable levels (113, 122, and 131 degrees Fahrenheit) that can be paired with three vibration patterns. It's great for back pain relief and warm-ups before mobility workouts, as it stimulates circulation and loosens the muscles in your lower back. I especially appreciate the auto shut-off function, which lets me sit back and relax, knowing I don't have to worry about turning it off. Too much heat can intensify muscle soreness or cause inflammation, and we don't want that. Specs Battery Life ~3 hours Return Policy 30 days Warranty Info 1 year Hydragun Heatpulse Knee Massager Commerce director Martin Cizmar injured his knee while undertaking an 'extremely large and ambitious cleaning project' and endured the pain for nearly a year before discovering a solution. The HydraKnee Pulse from Hydragun wraps around the joint and provides a blend of heat and vibration massage therapy. It can heat up to 158 degrees Fahrenheit, is rechargeable via USB-C, and features seven temperature settings along with three massage speeds. Martin mentions that he sets both options to maximum and relaxes until it shuts off automatically (after 30 minutes). The best part is its longer straps, allowing use on shoulders or larger limbs, along with a newly designed buckle suitable for slimmer limbs like elbows. P.S.: Consult a physician or physical therapist before self-treating any injuries. Specs Battery Life ~3 hours Return Policy 30 days Warranty Info 18 months HoMedics Shiatsu + Air 4.0 Foot Massager with Heat for $140: This foot massager combines shiatsu-style kneading and air compression to better your circulation. I pop my toesies in and out (with socks on) of this massage tool during the work day, and it feels fabulous, with three intensities and three patterns. It fits feet up to a men's size 13 and is compact enough to tuck under a desk or coffee table when not in use. The advertised heat function didn't work for me, quite literally; I didn't feel any warmth, but I still appreciate its place under my desk. Power up with unlimited access to WIRED . Get best-in-class reporting that's too important to ignore for just $2.50 $1 per month for 1 year. Includes unlimited digital access and exclusive subscriber-only content. Subscribe Today .
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Physical therapist in Midland is trying to change the way patients are treated
MIDLAND, Texas (KMID/KPEJ) – It is not uncommon to feel rushed or even slightly ignored during a physical therapy session, said Dr. Sarah Sanders, the founder of Threshold Physical Therapy in Midland. Sanders opened her own practice to change the way traditional physical therapy works, and give more one-on-one time to patients. 'Its your body as a whole not just that one piece,' Sanders said. While opening her own practice hasn't been easy, Sanders said she is thankful to be a part of improving the care and health of the Basin, and that she hopes others take the leap of faith in opening their own business. She also gave credit to the community in Midland that really encouraged her to pursue her dreams of opening her own office. 'Midland is funny that way right?' she said. 'It kind of inspires you to, to reach for things you never thought possible and everyone starts their own businesses and practices and really inspired me to take that leap.' Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
News.com.au
24-05-2025
- Entertainment
- News.com.au
Billy Joel cancels tour after being diagnosed with a brain disorder
US singer-songwriter Billy Joel has been diagnosed with a brain disorder, affecting his hearing, vision and balance. It has caused him to cancel his already rescheduled tour dates in the US, Canada and United Kingdom. The 76-year-old is undergoing physical therapy and has been advised not to perform as he recovers.
Fast Company
22-05-2025
- Business
- Fast Company
Hinge Health IPO update: NYSE stock trading starts today after shares priced at top of range
Hinge Health Inc, the digital physical therapy health startup that is expected to make its market debut on Thursday, in a closely watched initial public offering (IPO) that will test the market's interest for a new digital health offering, after what has been a challenging few years for the sector. Recently, there have been fewer tech IPOs, but they could be making a comeback, according to CNBC. The San Francisco-based company priced shares at $32 on Wednesday, the higher end of its expected range, in an offering led by Morgan Stanley, Barclays, and BofA Securities. The stock will list on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) under the ' HNGE ' ticker symbol. Based on its IPO share price, HNGE has an approximate valuation worth about $2.6 billion, though it could be higher on a fully diluted basis; and is much lower than its October 2021 valuation of $6.2 billion, according to CNBC. What does Hinge Health do? Hinge Health leverages software, including artificial intelligence (AI), to largely automate care for joint and muscle health, to improve outcomes, and cost reductions for its clients via a digital platform. That platform is designed to address a broad spectrum of musculoskeletal health needs (MSK) care—from acute injury, to chronic pain, to post-surgical rehabilitation—and aims It aims to reduce pain, improve function, and decrease the necessity for surgeries; while promoting health equity because it allows members to engage in their exercise therapy sessions from any location. The company was founded in 2014 by Daniel Perez and Gabriel Mecklenburg after both experienced MSK injuries, and both had to undergo surgery and physical therapy, enduring a frustrating recovery process.
