Are you tired of finding the best running shoes for posterior tibial tendonitis? Don’t worry I have got your back.
Posterior tibial tendonitis is a common ankle problem that occurs in almost every other person. This problem can become very serious if not properly addressed.
It mostly arises due to the bad posturing of your feet and excessive pronation at the ankle joint. The posterior tibial tendon is the ligament that provides support to the arch of the foot and gives your feet stability.
This ligament becomes inflamed or torn. This leads to intense pain and difficulty in walking as your arch support is lost.
One of the best ways to lessen the pain and let it heal easily is the use of comfy shoes which are made in a specialized way to cater to the need of your posterior tibial tendonitis.
After a lot of research and being a patient of posterior tibial tendonitis myself, I have found some of the best shoes for posterior tibial tendonitis.
These shoes will not only provide you with the comfort you need but will also help your feet to heal tendonitis. Before moving on to the details of the shoes let’s have a brief explanation of the posterior tibial tendonitis.
What is posterior tibial tendonitis?
Posterior tibial tendonitis is the inflammation of the posterior tibial tendon of your foot. This condition usually arises due to the heavy load of your body on your feet. In this condition, you will feel pain in your foot arch and ankle of the foot.
The posterior tibial ligament is the main support of the foot which provides stability and support. Damage to this tendon due to any injury or due to wearing uncomfortable shoes, this condition can get worsened which will result in extreme pain and will also render you immobile.
So, if you suspect such a condition, you should consult your doctor as soon as possible and also you should switch to comfortable shoes which are designed in a way to help you with your condition.
How can I treat posterior tibial tendonitis?
There are different ways to address this type of condition such as orthotics and surgery. While surgery is the most fearsome procedure in which torn tendon is sliced out and the prosthesis is applied, most people find orthotics is the best alternative for them until the condition gets worsened or there is no other solution left.
How to buy the best shoes for posterior tibial tendonitis?
There are certain indicators that you should keep in mind while buying a pair of shoes for posterior tibial tendonitis. I will be discussing all these important factors step by step.
1. Shoe stability index or SSI:
It is the indicator of the shoe’s stability. This is derived by quantifying the measurements of midfoot and hindfoot stability index. This indicator shows the overall ability of a particular shoe to control the motion of your feet.
2. Torsion Control Index or also called TCI:
This is an indicator of the measurement of midfoot shoe stability. In this indicator, a shoe is twisted along in longitudinal axis from the heel to the toe joint to check its ability to resist this change. This maneuver tests the rotational forces on the shoes and measures the resistance of the shoes to the motion.
High TCI means firmer midfoot and more torsional stability and vice-versa.
3. Vertical Compression Index or also called VCI:
It is the measure of hindfoot stability. It is measured by compressing the heel area of the shoe with a fixed amount of pressure and determining how much compression it can handle. It tells about the ability of the foot structure to handle this kind of motion.
Lower the VCI, the firmer the midsole and as a result more hindfoot stability and vice-versa.
4. Rebound Index or RI:
It is the indicator of the energy which is returned to the feet by the shoes. It is measured by compressing the heel area of the shoes under a fixed amount of pressure and calculating how much force the shoe exerts back on the foot.
Another factor that comes into play is the loaded heel-to-toe drop. In simple words, this is the height of the heel relative to the forefoot when compression of fixed pressure is applied. It is also called vertical support.
In the coming sections, all shoes are described according to these indicators which will provide you with enough knowledge about the shoes with maximum stability and support. These will also help to cope with your condition effectively. After reading this article it will be much easier for you to make your choice.
Best Running Shoes for Posterior Tibial Tendonitis
1. Mizuno Wave inspire 18:
Pros
- Great for maximum traction
- Breathable and lightweight upper
- Durable and long-lasting
- The heel provides a good counter
- The heel gives maximum thrust
Cons
- Laces can be messy and can get dirty easily
Why is Mizuno Wave Inspire 18 best for you
Mizuno Enerzy Foam:
Mizuno wave inspire 18 is the perfect shoe for you if your feet have an average build and if you are an overpronator.
The Mizuno wave inspire 18 comes with the Mizuno Enerzy Foam at the heel wedge which provides 17% more softness and maximum stability and return energy which is 15% greater than the previous versions.
Mizuno Wave Inspires 18 also has a double Fan-Shaped Wave design which will help you with the overpronation and will address your issue of overpronation.
It also comes with a specialized upper which will help with the stiffness of the shoes and your feet will remain in comfort while wearing them all day long.
Mizuno wave inspires 18 has a TCI value of 45mm, VCI value of 8.85mm, and vertical support of 3.15mm which makes it soft and stable. It also has a high RI index of 26.06mm which makes these shoes a favorable choice for you if you are suffering from posterior tibial tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, or Achilles tendonitis.
Mizuno Wave Tech:
Mizuno wave inspire 18 comes with a unique wave plate that spread the energy from each impact to a broader and wider area. This feature provides a stable platform and an excellent cushioning surface.
U4ic Midsole:
The midsole is designed in a specialized way to cater to all your need if you are suffering from plantar fasciitis or posterior tibial tendonitis. It delivers optimal shock resistance and provides stability to your feet.
The midsole is cushioned with state-of-the-art materials which makes it lightweight, well-responsive to impacts, and durable under heavy loads.
X10 Outsole:
Mizuno Wave Inspires 18 is designed with a unique and feature-rich outsole that not only provides stability and durability but aesthetics at the same time.
You can wear these shoes while running or attending a casual meeting and gathering. Its outsole will not make you feel clunky and outdated. It is made with durable carbon rubber which is known for its durability and reliability.
Upper:
The upper of this shoe Mizuno Inspire 18 is on par with all the premium features of a medicated shoe as it is breathable and sturdy at the same time. Due to its durability, this will save you a lot of money by preventing you to buy medicated shoes frequently due to torn uppers.
Its upper is designed in a way that you can wear it all day long without getting worried about the bad smell. This will also save your feet from multiple health problems such as allergic reactions and small wounds from long wear hours.
2. Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 3:
Nike is one of the top brands globally in the footwear market. Their Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 3 is one of the most popular shoes for running if you are looking for the best running shoes for posterior tibial tendonitis.
Pros
- Provides good stability
- Excellent upper gives maximum breathability
- Great comfy upper
- Seamless cushioning
Cons
- No major difference when compared with Infinity Run 2
- Slightly on the heavier side
- Warmer than the predecessors
Why is Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 3 best for you
Upper:
Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 3 comes with a breathable and lightweight yarn fiber upper which soothes your feet while running and provides you lesser friction between the dorsum of your feet and the shoe upper. It prevents feet from rubbing against the shoe material and keeps them safe if you have to wear the shoe for longer periods.
Sole:
Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 3 comes with rocker shaped sole which provides more room on the floor which in turn provides greater stability and endurance while running. It helps you carry on your running even if you are on unsteady terrain. The sole provides support for all the 3 phases of the running.
Midfoot support:
Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 3 has a unique design as there are flywire cables that are integrated with the shoe laces which provides greater stability to your arch if you are suffering from posterior tibial tendonitis.
Your midfoot is stabilized with the help of the flywire and the insole provides greater cushioning against jerks and jolts. Nike React technology is a lightweight, durable foam that gives you a smooth, responsive ride.
Overall Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 3 is a flexible shoe that helps you to push yourself at the start and later on, gives you a smooth ride as your march forward and the insole provides a greater cushioning effect as you go, and when your feet strike the ground.
Nike React Infinity Run Flyknit 3 has a TCI of 40 in with a VCI of 9.95mm. It has an SSI of 27mm with a high RI index all these indicators show that these will be the perfect choice for your tendinitis such as plantar fasciitis or posterior tibial tendinitis.
3. Hoka One One – Gaviota 4:
If you are looking for a premium option for your feet and at the same time you are suffering from posterior tibial tendonitis and trying to find out the best running shoes for posterior tibial tendonitis then Hoka One One- Gaviota 4 is your kick.
These shoes are specially engineered and crafted with the latest technology to cater to your health condition and provide you maximum stability and comfort while running on all types of surfaces.
Pros
- Provides dynamic stability
- Provides maximum comfort
- Perfect fit when compared with competitors
Cons
- Requires an adjustment period to settle
- Can be narrower for the heavy and bulkier feet
Why is Hoka One One best for you
Upper:
It has a breathable mesh upper which keeps your feet fresh all the time while you are wearing these. The upper mesh is designed in a way that it reduces the friction rub between shoe material and the foot dorsum making them more comfortable to wear for longer periods.
Midsole:
Hoka One One- Gaviota 4 has a unique midsole which is called compression molded foam which provides resilience and cushioning at the same time with its advanced H-Frame technology.
This compression foam soaks all the energy while running and gives a powerful thrust to your feet and at the same time, J-Frame provides greater cushioning to your feet and support to the foot arch.
Heel:
Its heel has a rocker-shaped design which helps to spread the energy to the greater area of the heel portion and makes your feet more stable and sounder while running.
Outsole:
The outsole is an abrasion-resistant rubberized material that gives a lot of thrust to your feet and gives more bounce while you are running.
Laces and Heel Pull Tabs:
This Hoka One One- Gaviota 4 shoe is also unique in the sense that it is made up of mostly recycled materials as its laces are made from recycled polyester fibers and heel pull tabs are also made from it.
4. Brooks Levitate 6:
If you are looking for the best running shoes for posterior tibial tendonitis then Brooks Levitate 6 can be an option as this is super light and gives your feet maximum stability.
Levitate was initially manufactured in 2017 to provide a maximum springy feel to its users with incredible energy return to the feet or also called the RI index.
The company has partnered with the top brands of material manufacturers to bring you an unmatchable experience.
They have partnered with BASP which has developed a DNA AMP compound for Levitate which is the backbone of these shoes. This material provides more thrust and energy return while keeping your feet comfy at the same time.
Pros
- Comfy and flex fit provides maximum comfort
- Less bulky and lightweight
- Maximum thrust is provided by the energized base
Cons
- Flat laces can be problematic
- Slightly narrower in the toe box for wide feet
Why is Brooks Levitate 6 best for you
Midsole:
Its midsole is made from state-of-the-art technology in which DNA AMP2 foam is made 10% lighter than before which gives you adequate cushioning while you are on the go. 2mm of additional springy foam provides you excellent comfort and stability so you can stay on track for a longer time.
Upper:
Its upper is enhanced as compared to the previous versions as it is lightweight and made from premium knit which gives you a comfy feel and confidence. The midsole is made wider so there should be a maximum heel-to-toe transition.
Outsole:
Brooks Levitate 6 outsole pattern is a unique arrow design that is best for your momentum while running. Its specialized design allows your feet to move quickly from heel to toe providing the maximum thrust.
Brooks Levitate 6 has TCI of 46in, VCI of 6.33mm with vertical support of 1.67mm. It provides a high RI index with soft cushioning at the midsole making these perfect pair of running shoes for the posterior tibial tendonitis.
5. New Balance 940 v4:
Still confused about the best shoes for posterior tibial tendonitis? Don’t worry I have a luxury and premium option which is made with the latest and most advanced technology. These shoes are not only beautiful when it comes to aesthetics but also provide comfort, stability, and resilience all at the same time.
New Balance 940 v4 has all the premium and medicated features that a patient with posterior tibial tendonitis desires while buying the best running shoes.
These are made with advanced and latest technology to keep your feet on the go.
Pros
- Provides good stability
- Greater toe-box area
- Comfortable
- Durable
Cons
- Mesh is prone to tears
- Built quality is below expectations
Why is New Balance 940 v4 best for you
Upper:
New Balance 940v4 is a premium shoe that is suitable for not only patients with posterior tibial tendonitis but also for regular runners. Their upper is made from exquisite synthetic material which makes the lighter, softer, and sturdy.
Midsole:
New Balance 940v4 midsole is made with their premium technology called ABZORB which is a unique and superior mixture of foam that provides cushioning and compression.
Heel and Arch Support:
New Balance 940v4 is made with advanced technology in which a central beam or also called T-Beam is created in the shoes. This beam provides support to the arch of the foot and torsional stability to the shoes. This beam is a lightweight and flexible shank that provides maximum endurance to the shoes.
These shoes have a TCI value of 64 which is the highest in this class with a VCI of 5.63mm. These shoes have the highest RI index or energy return of 71.8mm which makes them high-stability shoes with soft cushioning in the midsole.
These shoes are best for posterior tibial tendonitis and a variety of other conditions such as Plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, lateral ankle sprain, iliotibial syndrome, anterior shin splints, medial shin splints, runner’s knee or also called the patellofemoral knee.
Conclusion:
By far we have discussed 5 different best running shoes for posterior tibial tendonitis. These are based on thorough research from multiple authentic resources. You can rely on the shoes initially to get relief from pain and settle the inflammation which is bothering you while you have to go for a run.
Furthermore, if by using these specialized shoes, your condition is not getting better then you will have to see your doctor for better advice and treatment.
