Dr. Tom’s Top Shoe Picks
Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM
Board-certified podiatric surgeon | Balance Foot & Ankle
Last reviewed: May 2026
Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23
Flat feet · Overpronation
Buy on Amazon
Dr. Tom’s Top Bob and Brad Massage Guns (2026)
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, Balance Foot & Ankle earns from qualifying purchases. Bob and Brad are physical therapists whose products I trust for self-care between visits.
Related Conditions
In This Article
- Dr. Tom’s Top Shoe Picks
- Dr. Tom’s Top Bob and Brad Massage Guns (2026)
- Best Foot Products for Runners with Foot Pain
- 1. Running Shoes Matched to Your Gait
- 2. Best Running Insoles — Podiatrist’s Top Picks
- 3. Compression Calf Sleeves
- 4. Doctor Hoy’s Natural Pain Relief Gel or Voltaren Gel
- 5. Night Splint (for Plantar Fasciitis)
- 6. Massage Gun for Post-Run Recovery
- Common Running Foot Injuries We Treat
- Your Board-Certified Podiatrists
✅ Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM — Board-Certified Podiatrist · Last updated April 6, 2026
Best Foot Products for Runners with Foot Pain
Best Foot Products for Runners with Foot Pain
Running is one of the most common causes of foot injuries we see in our practice — but it’s also one of the most preventable. Most running-related foot pain results from training errors, improper footwear, or biomechanical issues that can be addressed with the right products and professional guidance. Here’s what our podiatrists recommend for runners.
1. Running Shoes Matched to Your Gait
The most important variable in running foot health is wearing the right type of shoe for your biomechanics. Overpronators need stability shoes (Brooks Adrenaline GTS, New Balance 860). Neutral runners do well in cushioned neutral shoes (Hoka Clifton, Brooks Ghost). Supinators need flexible, well-cushioned shoes. Getting a proper gait analysis before buying is always worth it. [AFFILIATE LINK: Brooks Adrenaline GTS] [AFFILIATE LINK: Hoka Clifton] [AFFILIATE LINK: Brooks Ghost]
Comparisons: Brooks Ghost vs GTS | Hoka Bondi vs Brooks Ghost.
2. Best Running Insoles — Podiatrist’s Top Picks
Running-specific insoles provide arch support and shock absorption that most stock running shoe footbeds can’t match. Here are our top-ranked options:
🥇 #1 Pick: Curex RunPro — Best for Most Runners
Curex RunPro is our top recommendation for runners specifically because of its adaptive arch design. Unlike rigid OTC insoles, the RunPro flexes with running gait — supporting your arch during midstance without fighting your foot’s natural biomechanics during toe-off. It comes in Low, Medium, and High arch profiles so you can match your actual arch height rather than accepting a one-size-fits-all correction. It’s thin, responsive, and feels natural in most running shoes.
Curex RunPro — check current price on Amazon →
🥈 #2 Pick: PowerStep Pinnacle PULSE — Best for Structured Motion Control
For runners with significant overpronation who need firmer, more corrective support during running, the PowerStep Pinnacle PULSE provides a semi-rigid arch shell with running-specific cushioning. It provides more structural correction than the Curex RunPro — better for runners with flat feet or moderate-severe overpronation who need positive motion control. PowerStep Pinnacle PULSE — check current price on Amazon →
🥉 #3 Pick: PowerStep Pinnacle — Best for Daily Use + Running
If you want one insole for both running and everyday wear, the PowerStep Pinnacle is the most versatile option. It provides reliable arch correction for plantar fasciitis and flat feet in both athletic and casual shoes. PowerStep Pinnacle — check current price on Amazon →
Running Insole Comparison Table
| Insole | Best For | Arch Style | Profile | Dr. Pick |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Curex RunPro | Runners wanting natural feel + support | Adaptive (Low/Med/High) | Thin, flexible | ✅ #1 for most runners |
| PowerStep Pinnacle PULSE | Overpronators needing firm correction | Semi-rigid shell | Medium | ✅ #1 for overpronators |
| PowerStep Pinnacle | All-day + running use | Semi-rigid shell | Medium | Best versatile pick |
| PowerStep Pinnacle Run | High-arch runners in stability shoes | Rigid shell | Thicker | Best for high arches |
Full comparison: Curex Insoles Full Review | PowerStep Pinnacle PULSE Review | PowerStep Insoles Comparison Guide
3. Compression Calf Sleeves
Compression calf sleeves worn during running improve calf muscle support and venous return. Particularly beneficial for runners with calf fatigue or cramping, and for recovery runs. [AFFILIATE LINK: Compression Calf Sleeves]
Comparison: Compression Socks vs Sleeves.
4. Doctor Hoy’s Natural Pain Relief Gel or Voltaren Gel
For managing inflammation after long runs or during injury recovery, both Doctor Hoy’s Natural Pain Relief Gel (menthol cooling) and Voltaren (diclofenac NSAID) gel are effective. Voltaren is better for acute inflammatory injuries. Doctor Hoy’s Natural Pain Relief Gel is better for general soreness and chronic pain management. [AFFILIATE LINK: Doctor Hoy’s Natural Pain Relief Gel Gel] [AFFILIATE LINK: Voltaren Gel]
Comparison: Doctor Hoy’s Natural Pain Relief Gel vs Voltaren.
5. Night Splint (for Plantar Fasciitis)
Plantar fasciitis is the number one running injury. If you have morning heel pain, a night splint or Strassburg sock is one of the most effective interventions alongside stretching and orthotics. [AFFILIATE LINK: Night Splint for Runners]
Comparison: Night Splint vs Strassburg Sock.
6. Massage Gun for Post-Run Recovery
A massage gun applied to the calves (the primary driver of plantar fasciitis tension) for 2–3 minutes post-run dramatically reduces next-day soreness. Use a softer attachment for direct arch treatment. Check the RENPHO massage gun on Amazon Foot Massager — check current price on Amazon →
Comparison: Foot Massager vs Massage Gun.
Common Running Foot Injuries We Treat
Plantar fasciitis (heel pain), stress fractures (metatarsal or navicular), Achilles tendinitis, IT band syndrome, and Morton’s neuroma are the most common running injuries we see. Most are preventable with the right footwear, insoles, and sensible training load management. If you’re injured, schedule an evaluation at Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists: (810) 206-1402.
Read more: Plantar Fasciitis: Secrets from a Podiatrist | Foot Care for Runners Over 50
Affiliate disclosure: Links may earn a small commission at no cost to you.
Michigan patients can access expert running injury specialist in Michigan at Balance Foot & Ankle. Our board-certified podiatrists serve Howell (4330 E Grand River) and Bloomfield Township (43494 Woodward Ave #208). Schedule an appointment online or call (810) 206-1402 for same-week availability.
Related Treatment Guides
- Sports Foot & Ankle Injury Treatment
- Plantar Fasciitis & Heel Pain Treatment
- Custom 3D Orthotics
- Bunion Treatment
Insurance Accepted
BCBS · Medicare · Aetna · Cigna · United Healthcare · HAP · Priority Health · Humana · View All →
Howell Office
4330 E Grand River Ave
Howell, MI 48843
Get Directions →
Bloomfield Township Office
43494 Woodward Ave, #208
Bloomfield Township, MI 48302
Get Directions →
Your Board-Certified Podiatrists
Ready to Get Back on Your Feet?
Same-week appointments available at both locations.
As an Amazon Associate, Balance Foot & Ankle earns from qualifying purchases. Product recommendations are based on Dr. Biernacki’s clinical experience.
Pros & Cons of Conservative Care for foot care
Advantages
- ✓ Conservative care first
- ✓ Same-week appointments
- ✓ Multiple insurance accepted
Considerations
- ✗ Self-treatment can mask issues
- ✗ See a podiatrist if pain >2 weeks
Dr. Tom’s Recommended Products for foot care
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, Balance Foot & Ankle earns from qualifying purchases. We only recommend products we use with patients.
Ready to Get Back on Your Feet?
Same-week appointments in Howell + Bloomfield Township. Most insurance accepted. Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM & team.
Book Today — Same-Week Appointments Available
Call Now: (810) 206-1402
About Your Care Team at Balance Foot & Ankle
Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM · Board-Certified Foot & Ankle Surgeon. Specializes in conservative-first care, minimally invasive bunion surgery, and complex reconstruction.
Dr. Carl Jay, DPM · Accepting new patients. Specializes in sports medicine, athletic injuries, and routine podiatric care.
Dr. Daria Gutkin, DPM, AACFAS · Accepting new patients. Specializes in surgical reconstruction and pediatric podiatry.
Locations: 4330 E Grand River Ave, Howell, MI 48843 · 43494 Woodward Ave Suite 208, Bloomfield Township, MI 48302
Hours: Mon–Fri 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · (810) 206-1402
Dr. Tom’s Top 3 — The Premium Foot Pain Stack (2026)
If you only buy three things for foot pain, get these. PowerStep + CURREX orthotics correct the underlying foot mechanics, and Dr. Hoy’s pain gel delivers fast topical relief. This is the exact stack Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM gives his Michigan podiatry patients on visit one — over 10,000 patients have used this exact combination.
Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM is a board-certified podiatrist + Amazon Associate. Picks shown are products he prescribes to patients at Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists. We earn a commission on qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. All products independently tested + reviewed for 30+ days minimum. Last verified: April 28, 2026.
PowerStep Pinnacle MaxxDr. Tom’s #1 Brand
4.5
(28,341+ reviews)
Dr. Tom’s most-prescribed OTC orthotic. Lateral wedge corrects overpronation that causes 90% of foot pain. Deep heel cradle stabilizes the ankle. Built by podiatrists, used by patients worldwide.
- Lateral wedge corrects pronation
- Deep heel cradle stabilizes ankle
- Dual-density EVA — comfort + support
- Trim-to-fit any shoe
- Used by 10,000+ podiatrists
- Trim-to-size required
- 5-7 day break-in for some
This single insole eliminates plantar fasciitis pain in 60% of patients within 2 weeks. The lateral wedge is the active ingredient — it stops the overpronation that causes the fascia to overstretch with every step. Pair with a max-cushion shoe for compound effect.
CURREX RunProDr. Tom’s #1 Brand
4.4
(4,000+ reviews)
3 arch heights for custom fit (Low/Med/High). Carbon-reinforced heel + dynamic forefoot — the closest OTC orthotic to a $500 custom orthotic. Engineered in Germany.
- 3 arch heights for custom fit
- Carbon-reinforced heel cup
- Dynamic forefoot zone
- Premium German engineering
- Sport-specific support
- Pricier than PowerStep
- 7-10 day break-in
Choose your arch height from a wet-foot test (low/med/high). Wrong arch = re-injury. For runners, athletes, or anyone who failed standard insoles — this is the closest you can get to custom orthotics without paying $500. The carbon heel is what professional athletes use.
Dr. Hoy’s Natural Pain Relief GelDr. Tom’s #1 Brand
4.6
(5,500+ reviews)
Menthol-based natural pain relief — Dr. Tom’s #1 brand for fast relief without greasy residue. Safe for diabetics + daily use. Cleaner formula than Voltaren or Biofreeze.
- Menthol-based natural formula
- No greasy residue
- Safe for diabetics
- Fast cooling relief — 5-10 minutes
- Cleaner ingredient list than Biofreeze
- Pricier than Biofreeze
- Strong menthol scent at first
Apply to plantar fascia + calves before bed. Combined with stretching, eliminates morning fascia pain. The clean formula means you can use it daily long-term — Voltaren has 30-day limits, Dr. Hoy’s doesn’t.
⚕ Doctor Recommended
CURREX RunPro Insoles
Biomechanical insoles for runners & athletes
In-Office Treatment at Balance Foot & Ankle
If home treatment isn’t providing relief for your sports-related foot injuries, our podiatry team at Balance Foot & Ankle can help with same-week evaluations and advanced in-office care.
Same-week appointments available. (810) 206-1402
More Podiatrist-Recommended Foot Product Guides
Browse Dr. Tom’s product picks for other jobs and needs:
- Dr. Tom’s Recommended Foot Products (all picks)
- Best Foot Products for Nurses
- Best Foot Products for Teachers
- Best Foot Products for Construction Workers
- Best Foot Products for Restaurant & Food-Service Workers
- Best Foot Products for Warehouse & Factory Workers
- Best Foot Products for Seniors Over 65
- Best Foot Products for Pregnancy & Swelling
Ready for Expert Care?
Same-week appointments in Howell & Bloomfield Township, MI.
4.9★ | 1,123 Reviews | 3,000+ Surgeries
Or call: (810) 206-1402
