Best Foot Roller For Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is a very painful condition – people suffering with it often experience excruciating pain while walking, standing, jogging or biking. Using tools like foot massagers or foot rollers have been the best for reducing the pain and improving the condition of plantar fasciitis.

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What is plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is a fibrous ligament that lies beneath the skin on the bottom of the foot. Its job is to absorb the strain and stress we place on the feet. But too much pressure can tear the fibers leading to inflammation, stiffness and pain.

Why is foot roller so effective…?

A foot roller acts similar to the acu-pressure technique. By rolling it on the feet, it reduces the inflammation, loosens tight muscles, releases the tension, stimulates blood, and lymph circulation. People who have been using it for at least 1 – 2 weeks, experienced a lot of relief from the discomforts caused by foot roller.

In this article, we have listed and reviewed seven best foot rollers for plantar fasciitis. They are carefully picked up by our experts after an extensive research and testing. We have also compiled a “buying guide” which explains about the factors you have to consider while choosing a foot roller.

List of Best Foot Roller for Plantar Fasciitis

Off all the products mentioned in the list, our expert has picked up “TriggerPoint Nano” as the best because of its quality, advanced technology, discipline approach, myofascial release and others. And it comes at affordable price too…

A Detailed Evaluation of Each Foot Roller

1. TriggerPoint Nano Foot Roller Massager

This product is specifically designed to increase flexibility and relieve pain in feet and hands. It has clear ends which look like wheels but aren’t. You have to move the complete roller with your foot. Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) foam is used for making this foot roller.

Its disciplined approach improves blood circulation by steering the nutrients in the blood to ligaments, tendons and bones. It stimulates the feeling of getting a massage from a therapist. That is what makes it effective and popular.

Apart from that, this product is also known for myofascial release – a thin sheath layer connecting tissues to muscles. Damage to this layer can cause inflammation and soreness.

TriggerPoint foot roller just weighs 8 ounces so you can carry it around wherever you go like office, travels, gym and others. It is available in 2 densities – regular and extra firm. Apart from plantar fasciitis, it is also effective in reliving carpal tunnel syndrome (you have to place it under the wrist and roll). For its quality and durability, the price is quite affordable.

Things We Liked:

• Portable, durable and lightweight.
• Can be used by aged persons too.
• Recommended by professionals.
• No lubrication or greasing required.
• Device retains its shape.
• No special precautions required.

Things We Didn’t Like:

• For some feet, it may be too large or wide.
• Can be used for only one foot at a time.

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2. Natural Chemistree Foot Roller

This product provides quick relief from the stress and pressure your feet muscles have been taking throughout the day. It is specially designed to relief plantar fasciitis. However, it is also proven to be successful in reducing muscle pains in other body parts.

It is ergonomically designed such that the sole of foot can get complete control. The nubs on the foot roller recreate the effect of acupressure effect. The therapy imitates the feeling of a deep-tissue massager done by experienced therapists.

The numerous nubs working on the foot stimulate an increase in blood circulation. People who have tender feet or soles can use it wearing socks. If you want a deep and more intense stimulation then avoid wearing socks. It has wheels on both sides which make it safe to use on any flooring type.

Things We Liked:

• 1 year guaranteed satisfaction.
• Light weight and portable.
• Deep tissue pressure and acupressure effect.
• Improves blood circulation.
• Durable and easy to use.
• Wheel on both sides, so safe to use on any surface.

Things We Didn’t Like

• It can crumble if overweight is added.

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3. Foot Log Foot Massager

This product is highly recommended for people who have plantar fasciitis whose occupations require walking or standing for longer periods of time. It is a perfect tool to get quick pain relief without shelling out much money.

It is known for improving blood circulation, reducing stress, easing tension and relaxing the muscles. You can use this foot massager while watching TV, working in office, reading or listening to music. Soft, flexible material that is lightweight and durable is used for making this product.

With every product, a 64-page manual is provided which contains details of the product, its benefits and how to use it. It is light in weight, easy to use and carry around.

Things We Liked:

• Reduces stress and tension in muscles.
• Stimulates blood circulation.
• Uses reflexology principles and techniques.
• Easy to use and transport.
• 64 page manual is provided.

Things We Didn’t Like:

• Can be used for only one foot at a time.

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4. TheraFlow Dual Foot Massager

Also known as dual foot massager, this wooden roller is specially designed with precision and care. It has two varieties of rollers with small nubs which apply pressure on the feet. It is developed to set beneath the feet to alleviate pain and relax muscles.

This foot roller can be used in 2 modes: acupuncture and kneading. In acupuncture mode, you have to place your feet on rollers across the five rows and hold them for few seconds. While in the kneading mode, you have to move the feet front and back few times during each treatment.

It is made up of high quality, polished theaceae wood which is known for its sturdy, stable and solid construction. It is perfect for feet of all sizes and you can massage two feet at a time. It just weighs 1.6lbs so you can carry it around while travelling.

Things We Liked:

• Portable and versatile.
• Lifetime guarantee.
• Durable and reliable.
• Weighs just 1.6lbs.
• Built with tough wood.

Things We Didn’t Like:

• Creates a little bit of noise.
• It is designed for people with high arches, so if you have a high arch then this product may not be suitable.

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5. The Oh Ball Premium Massage Ball Roller

The Oh Ball wooden massager is one of the trusted brands for ultimate and great physical therapy pain relief. It provides ultimate relief and eases soreness in soft tissues, hands, legs and fascia. If you want to use it for multipurpose then just remove the handles.

The self-myofascial muscle will help to increase the blood flow, reduce soreness, increase immune function, and increase muscular motion. The handles are made up of American military paracord which will put you under control of pressure and target.

Due to its versatility, this foot roller ball can be used by heel spur, soreness, plantar fasciitis and many others. It is made up of 100% American made organic maple hardwood which is a natural anti-microbial, anti-bacterial and hypoallergenic.

Things We Liked:

• Great for healing spurs and plantar fasciitis.
• Eases muscles stress and improve blood flow.
• 3 inch diameter.
• Strong 500 paracord.
• Unique cord design.
• 100% money back guarantee.

Things We Didn’t Like:

• Can be used only on foot at a time.
• A bit expensive.

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6. Gillsun Fitness Foot Massager

This is a combination of 2 massage balls and 1 foot roller. They are specially designed to provide relief from plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, achy feet and other issues.

The hot and cold therapy massage balls contain a non-toxic gel which provides soothing relief. The spikes on one massage ball can stimulate muscles and blood circulation through acupressure. High density foam is used for foot roller which channels nutrient rich blood to the tissues and promotes healing process.

Along with foot roller, the manufacturer even provides 2 super effective massage balls and bonus bag. If you don’t like the massaging experience provided by this foot roller then you can return it for a full refund without any questions asked.

Things We Liked:

• 2 massage roller balls.
• Hot/cold therapy.
• Ergonomically designed foot roller.
• Satisfaction guaranteed.
• Full refund if you don’t like it.

Things We Didn’t Like:

• Not suitable for people with high arc feet.

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7. SLB Foot Massager Roller

The pointed poky spiked surface of these foot rollers provides an extraordinary relief and comfort. It is best suited for relieving plantar fasciitis, foot arch pain, spurs and other issues related to foot.

Soft rubber is used for making this foot roller which provides a good grip and feel. The firm steel core will hold up the weight pressure of the leg. The unique design is ergonomically designed to relieve pain from muscles.

No matter how many times you use the foot roller, it will retain the shape. Being lightweight and portable, it can be carried to offices or where ever you go. Apart from feet, this roller can also be used on shoulders, hand and so on.

Things We Liked:

• Arc design for perfect fit.
• High quality PVC material.
• Durable PU and TE protect.
• Lightweight and portable.
• Unique design.

Things We Didn’t Like:

• The wheels of the foot roller are not durable.

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What Exactly is a Foot Roller?

It is an elongated massage tool that helps to relieve the pain and relax the tired feet. They have raised points which will be rolled on your feet. This improves blood circulation, eases the pain, and removes the tension or pressure from the feet.

Usually, foot rollers are made up of plastic or wooden. One of the great benefits of foot roller is that you can use it anytime and anywhere like at home, work or even while travelling. As they are very light in weight and portable, it fits perfectly in the travel bags.

How Does Foot Roller Work In Treating Plantar Fasciitis?

When you move the foot roller, it performs gentle massage to provide maximum relief. By keeping pressure on the trigger points, it reduces inflammation caused by plantar fascia and releases the tight muscles effectively. They stimulate the blood and lymph circulation which promotes faster recovery from plantar fasciitis.

If used it regularly then you can reduce the stress and relieve the tension in the muscles of lower leg. They are helpful in stretching the muscles. People who used it regularly had observed less pain and better flexibility.

How to Choose a Foot Roller for Plantar Fasciitis

There are several types of foot rollers available in the market. Choosing the right one among them can be a little difficult. In order to help you out in decision making, we have explained them in detail below…

1. Materials

Usually, foot rollers are made up of natural rubber – which provides slip resistant, safe usage and without scratching floor. As they are made up of rubber, they are easy to clean and maintain. Most of the foot rollers have a ridged design which is helpful in pressuring the trigger points for a very good foot massage. This provides a relief from the pain and inflammation. Some of the foot rollers have a hallow core that matches the contour of the foot, providing a customized spa feeling.

Other material often used for making foot rollers is silicone. This is also an excellent choice because they are easy to maintain and clean. These foot rollers have a unique design, having ancient acupressure techniques. They have a unique contour stretch which allows the soft tissues to be perfectly pressured and stretched for good relief.

Another type is wood foot rollers – they have the capability of providing a very intense pressure level. However they require a long accommodation period.

Foot rollers made of silicon and rubber provide lighter pressure than the ones made of wood. They are not harsh as wood rollers which make it perfect choice for beginners. Wooden foot rollers can slip on certain surfaces while the silicone/rubber foot rollers will not slip, regardless of the surface.

2. Shape

When selecting a foot roller, it is better to go with the device that has an ergonomic design which perfectly suits the foot arch. For kneading properties, you can check out for a textured surface. Make sure they are light in weight and fits into your travel or office bag.

3. Purpose

Foot rollers are designed to cater certain conditions. Some may be effective in providing relief for plantar fasciitis, while others are better at curing tight calves, ankle or joint pain. So, while purchasing the foot roller make sure it is designed to cater your specific requirement.

4. Budget

Foot rollers come in a varied range of designs and prices. You can choose any one that fits your budget. But make sure the quality of the product is good to enough invest your bucks. If the quality isn’t good then investing even a small amount can becomes wasted. If you are an athlete or sport enthusiast then make sure to invest in a high quality and best product without being stingy.

Different Types of Foot Rollers

Basically, there are two types of foot rollers – reflexology based and multi-rollers. Let’s have a detailed description below…

1. Reflexology Based Foot Rollers

These foot rollers are made up on the principles of reflexology which determine that certain pressure points are present in the foot. By using this type of foot roller, you can activate the pressure points for relieving pain and ensure well-being. They have raised points which correspond to the pressure points on the feet.

2. Multi-Roller Foot Massager

This type contains several massaging rollers in one massager. Usually, the multi-rollers contain two rollers by the sides of foot massager and multiple rollers in row. This type of multi-roller massager is very light in weight and provides effective results. They are capable of covering most of the feet and crafted in such a way that it perfectly fits to the contour of the foot arches.

Process Of Using A Foot Roller

The main purpose of using a foot roller is to generate pressure on the bottom part of foot. You should start with a gentle pressure and increase it overtime until you are convenient. However, you never do it aggressively as they can worsen the problem.

For efficient results, it is always recommended to do the massage in back and forth movements. A foot roller works on the trigger points present on the bottom of foot which are present as tendor and tight knots. In the initial days of using the foot roller, you may experience slight pain and tenderness. But you should never stop using it. At least roll for 15 – 20 seconds every time to get used to it. Take some time to move the roller slowly, gradually and as gentle as you can. Apart from relieving the pain, the foot roller will also recharge and energize the whole body.

For a more clear idea and instructions, you can watch the video below…

The discomforts caused by plantar fasciitis can be kept under control by using a foot roller. Using it for just couple of minutes will be worthy. Generally, foot rollers can be used for at least 3 times in a day – morning (after waking up), noon and night (before going to bed). If the symptoms are bothering you constantly then you can use it more times. To get relief from the symptoms, we recommend using them only for short and gentle sessions. You can increase the pressure or time based up on the feelings and number of painful trigger points

Advantages Of Using A Foot Roller In Plantar Fasciitis

1. Increased Blood Circulation

A foot roller is one of the best ways to promote or enhance blood circulation in the foot. They are especially helpful for people who live a sedentary lifestyle or those who rarely exercise. With foot roller, you can achieve improved blood circulation in the muscles, ligaments, tissues and bones of the feet like no other.

2. Improves Common foot Conditions and Injuries

This is the main purpose of using a foot roller. Using the foot roller regularly can reduce the pain and helps the feet recover from injuries. Usually, they relieve the tension accumulated on the tendons, muscles, ligaments and other foot areas. For athletes, regular massages minimize the injury cases and let the feet remain limber.

3. Decreases Anxiety and Stress

Everyone knows that feet contain high-concentration of acu-sensors that are connected to every single part of the body. Using a foot roller will activate the positive effect of reflexology in different body parts, including brain dealing with a lot of stress.

Precautions To Consider While Using A Foot Roller

• Always clean the foot roller to prevent any risk of infections. Either it can be a wooden, plastic or rubber, use a disinfectant spray for cleaning purpose. Or else you can use soapy water with little amounts of bleach if the roller is not wood.
• Make sure to follow the manufacturer instructions before cleaning or using the foot massager.
• Though foot rollers can be used on the feet with socks, it is always better to use them on barefoot for effective results. It may feel a bit ticklish and uncomfortable in the beginning but as the time passes, you will get accustomed to sensation.
• Don’t apply too much intense pressure as it can lead to more pain.

Who should Avoid Using a Foot Roller?

Unfortunately, foot roller is not suitable for all people who deal with plantar fasciitis. Below are the conditions…

• People with flat feet should never use foot roller even if they are dealing with plantar fasciitis.
• People dealing with diabetes and circulatory disorders should avoid using foot roller.
• Avoid using them if you have scabs, rashes, broken skin and rashes.

It is always better to ask your doctor before using a foot roller.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How Does a Foot Roller Benefit the Feet?

• When a foot roller is used, the feet will get a spa like massage and remain relaxed.
• They help in improving the blood circulation in the feet.
• Once the feet are massaged, you can reduce the pain and soreness.
• They are very easy to use and carry around from one place to another.
• For good relief – all you have to do is roll the massager for 10 minutes at least 3 times in a day.

2. Where Can I Purchase a Foot Roller?

If you are interested in purchasing a foot roller then you can get them at any local health store. However, it is always better to purchase them online. There are several brands that sell foot rollers online. You can purchase them in their websites or online e-commerce sites like Amazon. In online stores, you can check the reviews, features and other information to make a wise decision.

3. Can I Use a Foot Roller for Stretching Contracted Big Toe?

People who have plantar fasciitis often experience contracted big toe. And foot roller can be used to relieve the same. You have to place the foot roller on the big toe while the rest of the foot is placed on the ground. While doing the massage, apply a little pressure so that you not only stretch the foot but also the bottom of foot. Make sure to maintain the stretch for at least 15 seconds for 3 set repetitions. You have to repeat the process 3 times a day for obtaining the results.

4. Can a Foot Roller be Placed Frozen, Chilled and Heated Before Use?

For better comfort, you can place the rubber/silicone foot roller in refrigerator. It almost feels like placing an ice pack/cold compression on the feet. They help to reduce the inflammation and pain present on the feet. In case of inflammation caused by plantar fasciitis, cold therapy is a common solution. By rolling the massager on the foot (back and forth) – you will reduce the inflammation.

As already discussed, foot rollers can be frozen or chilled which helps to provide good benefits of cold therapy. There are some foot rollers which can be placed in hot water as well. They help to boost the blood circulation which speeds up the healing and recovery.

5. What is considered as plantar fasciitis?

plantar fascia is a flat ligament present in the bottom of the feet that runs from heels to toes, supporting the arch. Its main functionality is to absorb the shock generated when you hit the ground. If this ligament gets swollen, tender, or experience strain then plantar fascia is formed. This condition makes it very difficult to walk, run or jog.

6. What are the Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis?

The most common symptom of plantar fasciitis is stabbing pain in the bottom of foot, especially while running or walking. However, if you are experiencing any intense foot pain (in the night or evening) then it is not plantar fasciitis. It can be either arthritis or any problem in nerve.

7. Who are more prone to plantar fasciitis?

Runners or athletes or people who jog or run long distances daily are more prone to plantar fasciitis. This condition is also common for people who are obese, overweight or who put excessive weight on the ligaments. People who wear shoes without adequate support are also at the risk of getting plantar fasciitis.

8. What causes plantar fasciitis?

• Below are few causes that can lead to plantar fasciitis…
• An overly strained or torn plantar fasciitis ligament.
• Athletes who are over trained without rest.
• Disproportionately administered weight.
• Wearing heels.
• Overweight and obese.

9. Does plantar fasciitis get worsen at any particular time?

most of the people feel the pain especially during the morning as soon as they wake up. People who exercise may experience more pain after the workout. Longer periods of sitting or standing can also exacerbate the pain.

10. Does plantar fasciitis re-occur after it is completely healed?

Yes, this can be true if you treat only the symptoms instead of the root cause. It is always better to consult a doctor to pinpoint the root cause and treat it.

Conclusion

We tried to include all the information related to foot rollers and how they are beneficial for plantar fasciitis. Once you purchase your foot roller, make sure to maintain them clean. A dirty roller can increase the chances of foot infection, leading to another bunch of discomforts.

If you need any assistance over foot rollers then write to us in the comment section below. We are glad to help you out. If you think the information provided above is helpful then share it with your friends and family.