‘I Wish I’d Looked Into It Sooner’: These Gel Heel Cups Are a ‘Lifesaver’ for Foot Pain

Shoppers say they noticed a difference the moment they stood up

Heel pain can be intense and stubborn no matter what kind of shoes you wear, especially if you have plantar fasciitis. In prior HuffPost reporting, one podiatrist said heel cushions can help ease pain and add comfort inside shoes. Best of all, they are inexpensive — we found this option for as little as $10, with glowing reviews such as, “These feel so good. I wish I had done the research sooner. I’ve been suffering all this time. Not anymore.”

Homergy’s gel heel inserts are made with a soft, supportive silicone and lift the heel to help reduce strain and fatigue. Their self-adhesive base is flexible and can attach to the heels of many shoe styles, including sneakers, boots and high heels. They are also washable and reusable, so you can move them from pair to pair or buy several if that works better for you.

Reviewers describe the heel cups as a “lifesaver” for plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, flat feet and more. “These are the best inserts available for my plantar fasciitis,” one reviewer wrote. “I’ve been dealing with this problem for 25 years and have tried every insert as well as customized orthotics and these inserts have worked the best.”

Another benefit, according to shoppers who have used them, is that they stay put and the adhesive base really works. One person said they last about two to four months before needing replacement, so while they are not permanent, they can go a long way.

Shoppers who have experimented with many other shoe inserts also speak highly of these heel cups. “I recently got achilles tendonitis after walking a lot during a trip to Europe for several weeks. In addition to exercises, my physical therapist recommended a heel pad,” one reviewer wrote. “I tried several that were all too hard, uncomfortable or too large. Like Goldilocks, these are just right. Very cushioned, fit perfectly in the heel portion of any show and they stay in place due to a sticky tape peel at the heel. I plan to buy more for all of my shoes.”

Another reviewer shared a similar experience: “I wore over the counter orthotics and I was still having heel issues when I stood too long or worked out. I bought these and got rid of the orthotics. My knee and heel pain are gone. Shock absorbing is great when stepping down a curb or stairs.”

The heel cups come in four colors: black, white, pink and blue. The blue version is also sold in a six-pack, or three sets, and there is an enhanced version with 20% more support for people over 220 pounds. Pick up a pair and enjoy shoes that finally feel comfortable again.

A pair of arch support orthotic inserts

Two podiatrists told HuffPost that arch support shoe inserts are worth trying, although in some cases custom orthotics might be necessary.

These highly rated insoles use a high arch and deep heel cup to provide support and keep the foot in the right position, helping protect the heel from impact. The inserts are available in both men's and women's sizing.

A pair of podiatrist-approved recovery sandals

A topical anti-inflammatory gel