Conditions ranging from plantar fascitis to arthritis can lead to heel pain. If you are suffering from heel pain, you should consult with an orthopedist to figure out why, but in the meantime, you may want to invest in some over-the-country products to give your heels more comfort. Here's a look at some of the options.

1. Compression Socks

In some cases, heel pain can be related to flat feet or weak arches, and compression socks can help. You can get socks that are tight through the arch area and also provide support to the heel. You can also find arch support wraps that are basically toeless socks.

If you like going barefoot, that may be a great compromise—going barefoot can put too much pressure on the heels. With this approach, your heels gets support, but your toes get to wiggle freely. Alternatively, you can create a similar effect by wrapping your arches in sport bandages.  

2. Insoles

Insoles can also help to give your heels as well as the rest of your feet extra comfort. You can buy insoles at most large chemists—look for the type that is designed to support heels in particular. For extra relief, consider icy insoles. They are filled with gel and give your feet the cool-hot sensation that you get from soothing arthritic creams and muscle rubs.

3. Heel Pads

If you don't want to wear a full insole, you don't have to. You can wear heel pads instead. These soft pads go just under your heel. There are silicone ones with adhesive that you can stick directly to your heel, perfect for going almost barefoot or for use with strappy high heels. Alternatively, you can get heel pads that fit into sandals or other types of shoes.

4. Night Splints

For extra support through the night, there are also night splints. These look like soft sided casts or knee braces, and they support your muscles whilst you sleep. That ultimately helps your feet and heels in particular to feel a bit stronger during the day.

5. Creams

Finally, while creams don't offer direct support to your heels, they can help to relax the muscles of your feet and work as a topical pain reliever. Consider rubbing over-the-counter pain relief products on your heels in conjunction with some of the above ideas.

Note that in some cases, you may need more. You may want to talk with a doctor about custom orthotics and heel supports or medicated creams.

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