Struggling to lose weight because of foot pain? Conditions like plantar fasciitis can make it difficult to be active and reach your weight loss goals. The good news is, losing weight can reduce stress on your feet and joints, which may help get rid of plantar fasciitis pain.

Keep reading to find out how to relieve foot pain that makes it hard to lose weight with the following tips, exercises, and PowerStep® insoles for plantar fasciitis.

Being overweight puts extra pressure on the bones, joints and tissues in your feet. Over time, this excess strain causes problems like flat feet, overpronation, and inflammation of the tissues that support your arch, also known as plantar fasciitis.

A 2012 report from the International Association for the Study of Obesity found a strong association between having a high body mass index (BMI) and chronic plantar heel pain. Meanwhile, a 2014 study from the journal Gait & Posture showed that weight loss significantly reduced pressure on the plantar fascia for obese adults.

A sudden increase in activity, such as starting a new workout routine, can worsen heel pain from plantar fasciitis, making it even harder to exercise and lose weight. Because weight loss helps plantar fasciitis, relieving that pain is an important first step to getting in shape.

Read more about how to keep your New Year’s weight loss resolutions and prevent foot pain.

PowerStep heavy duty orthotics for plantar fasciitis help people who are overweight relieve foot pain so they can be more active. Our clinically proven arch support and premium cushioning help absorb shock, distribute pressure, and limit stress on your feet and joints.

Our top orthopedic insoles for plantar fasciitis with arch support include heavy weight insoles like:

Recommended by podiatrists, PowerStep insoles help improve alignment and stability for better foot function during daily activities. With 90% of PowerStep users having relief from foot, knee and back pain within 2 weeks, you can get the relief you need and get moving.

Running to lose weight? Read more about why you need arch support.

When you lose weight, you put less pressure on your feet which will help relieve pain and prevent flare-ups. Talk to your doctor first to make sure you’re healthy enough for weight loss, especially if you have severe foot pain or other medical conditions.

Here are 5 easy tips for relieving foot pain so you can start reaching your goals:

Plantar fasciitis exercises like toe curls, calf stretches, and plantar fascia massages help improve your foot strength and flexibility. If your weight makes it hard to bend over, try using the PowerStep UltraFlexx® Foot Rocker for an easier stretch and faster relief.

Wearing athletic shoes with arch support and cushioning helps reduce pressure and ease discomfort while working out. Look for well-cushioned running or stability shoes and add PowerStep PULSE plantar fasciitis shoe inserts for relief from foot and knee pain.

While rest is important for letting the plantar fascia heal, being inactive for too long can cause stiffness and pain. Gradually increase your activity level and try beginner workouts like the Couch to 5k plan or Walk-to-Run program to help prevent pain or injuries.

Low-impact exercises can help you burn calories and work your muscles without putting too much stress on your feet. The best exercises to lose weight with plantar fasciitis include: