Put Your Best Foot Forward, Literally by Robin Gorman Newman

Having been recently diagnosed with Plantar Fasciitis (a very painful foot condition), I’ve been on a quest to educate myself both about the best self care and strategy going forward, particularly in the shoe department.

So the timing was perfect when I was introduced to a company called Moji.

Since their introduction in 2017, Moji’s Heated Foam Roller and Heated Massage Balls have become the go-to heated massage products for warm up and recovery for athletes and active people.  And, now with Moji’s Thermal Bag™, you can bring them to your yoga class, gym, dance studio, etc.

“Muscle soreness, pain, and tightness often keep you from working out. Foam rolling helps heal and relax muscle tissue and eases trigger points. Unfortunately, for many people, rolling hurts. By adding heat, our Moji Heated Foam Roller helps to relax and soothe muscles and makes foam rolling feel good. The therapeutic heat increases blood flow as you roll, which helps to loosen tight muscles even more,” says Victor Viner, Moji’s Founder and CEO.

The insulated carrying bag is water resistant, lightweight, soft, and easy to clean.

I have to say…I love the heated foam roller.  I was advised to use a foam roller to loosen up my calves, and to use a heating pad as well, and this makes it possible to effectively heat ‘n roll at the same time….genius!!

I unscrew the roller and heat up part of it in the microwave, then put it back together with an easy twist motion…and voila!!  It’s been hugely helpful to me.  I haven’t transported it but use it at home in bed, and it’s been great.  It’s designed to retain heat for up to 90 minutes.

I also use the Foot PRO Massager, and like it very much as well.  You can freeze it for an icy feeling foot massage! It’s great for Plantar Fasciitis and foot pain relief. The Moji Foot PRO Massager features high-tech engineered stainless steel spheres which are professional grade and travel-friendly. The spheres dig deep into muscle and tissues to relieve pain and break up scar tissue.  I was previously using a tennis ball to roll my foot on, but this is all the better….and also very transportable.

They make a host of other innovative therapeutic products for post-activity recovery, rehab and pain relief that are worth checking out.  Visit www.gomoji.com.

For more comfort, when you do not have time to pull out your massager, Protalus plantar fasciitis insoles are a great option.  They can help keep your feet stay aligned and well supported as you go about your day.

I’m still navigating the shoe arena, as I’ve largely been wearing sneakers since my diagnosis…so I’ve been researching brands that are stylish but well-suited to people with foot issues, and particularly Plantar Fasciitis.

Two strong brands that have emerged are OOFOS and Vionic.

OOFOS was founded in 2011 by four veterans of the footwear industry who saw an unmet need for footwear that could help fitness enthusiasts and athletes recover from repeated workouts on hard, man-made surfaces. They worked with a foam chemist to develop a breakthrough foam material they call OOfoam™ technology.

After doing two extensive research studies, the company learned that the OOfoam™ technology, paired with their patented footbed design, lessens the demand on ankles and knees while walking, which results in less work for your other leg muscles. By making walking easier on the body, it reduces stress to allow your body to feel better….and is scientifically designed to help you recover.

OOFOS, sold in 35 countries worldwide, launched Project Pink in 2015. For each pair of OOFOS sold on oofos.com, they donate 3% directly to breast cancer research to support new medical breakthroughs.

I had the opportunity to try two of their offerings…..The OOmg shoe and the OOahh Sport Slide.

Both features the revolutionary OOfoam™ technology that absorbs 37% more impact than traditional footwear foam materials to reduce the stress on your feet and joints. And, the breathable 4-way stretch fabric (in the shoe, which comes in an array of colors) allows added comfort. OOFOS are made in whole sizes, so they recommend sizing up for you are a women’s half size.

The shoe is designed to….Reduce stress on sore feet, knees, and back; Enable more natural motion; Offer minimalist construction for light weight feel; Be machine washable, plus moisture and bacteria resistant.

The slide, which comes in some cool color combos, can work indoors as a slipper, at the pool, and out ‘n about.

I must admit that I’m still putting both to the test, and was informed by OOFOS that some customers take a bit of time to get used to them.  But, I definitely like the foamy feeling and will continue to try them out at home before I venture outside.  A lifeguard at my community pool recently told me he wears OOFOS to the pool…he suffered from Plantar Fasciitis due to running, and he said they have been a game changer.

VIONIC

From the Vionic website….

According to the study, plantar heel pain is estimated to affect one in ten people over the course of a lifetime, and costs a quarter of a billion dollars to treat annually in the United States alone. APMA statistics on heel pain offer an even higher estimate. This kind of pain is often felt on the first step out of bed in the morning or after a long period of sitting, and can be exacerbated by bodily changes like weight gain or chronic strain on the feet.

For people who suffer from this type of foot and heel pain, it is highly recommended to invest in a pair of shoes for plantar fasciitis. These supportive shoes provide foot alignment, and good arch support, helping you stay comfortable and supported while walking throughout your day.

From casual flip flops to chic dress sandals, Vionic has a shoe for any occasion.

I was sent the Jenelle Mule…..a lovely black suede slip-on adorned with rhinestones, which you can dress up or down.  The footbed is Microfiber Wrapped EVA, and the outsole is rubber. If you are a half size, they recommend ordering the nearest size down.  It fits medium widths. For the greatest comfort, they recommend wearing new Vionic footwear for just a few hours for the first few days to allow your feet to adjust to the level of orthotic comfort and support. Within one to two weeks, you should find the product completely comfortable and supportive.  If you are currently wearing an orthotic insert in your shoes, these will likely offer the same feeling.

Like the OOFOS shoes, I’m still breaking these in, but I love the look….and it also comes in a Pewter leather.

Vionic makes shoes for men as well and has a wide range of offerings for both men and women.

Visit www.vionicshoes.com.

Note: I was provided product samples, but my opinions are my own.