My Tennis "Socktail"

Tennis Technology and Training

I have been suffering from heel pain due to plantar fasciitis. While I generally follow the treatment advice for that malady, when the suggestion inevitably comes to switch to only low-impact activities for awhile, it is a bridge too far. It simply isn’t a viable option for me. Tennis will be played no matter what. Recently, I have settled in on a sock configuration that minimizes heel pain both during and after tennis. I call it my “Socktail.”

The Socktail is a three layer system: a plantar fasciitis ankle compression sock and a gel heel cup, both of which are topped off with a sock that has great cushioning around the heel. The three products in combination work better for me than any of these single items used in isolation. Additionally, like a lot of lifetime tennis players, I have a wide forefoot and a relatively narrow heel. While the three layers create extra girth around the heel, I did not have to change shoe manufacturer or size.

I tried a lot of planter fasciitis compression socks before settling in on SB Sox which are available from amazon. Planter fasciitis issues are rooted in tightness in the Achilles tendon and I have found that ankle support results in a very big reduction of post-match pain.

I had a little bit of a “Goldilocks” experience going through various brands of compression socks. Some provided great support, but the tight elasticity made them hard to get on and off. Others were more relaxed, but didn’t provide enough support. The SB Sox are “just right.”

I experimented with various permutations of silicon gel cushioning products that minimize pain while playing. The gels provide great padding, but I experienced a lot of issues with these sliding out of position. Ultimately I settled in on heel cups that are shaped kind of like a small ankle brace. I also found that sandwiching these between the compression sock and an outer sock holds them firmly in place.

I have recently switched my preferred sock brand to Feetures. The Max Cushion model has thick padding in the heel as well as increased arch support. These socks also have “double tabs” which I regard as essential in a tennis sock. The Feetures might be overkill in my Socktail. However, right now I am exclusively purchasing this sock in anticipation that they will also be best when I have the planter fasciitis issue in the rear view mirror.

I also use an after-market orthotic which is a topic I previously wrote about in “After-Market Insoles for Tennis Shoes.” Per that article, I think that orthotics are something that players need to work out on their own because foot mechanics and needs are highly variable. However, I am currently using Spenco Total Support Max Shoe Insoles (sponsored link) which is directly related to my plantar fasciitis issues.

If you are a tennis player, or really any athlete, that is struggling with heel pain from plantar fasciitis, this Socktail might be just the ticket for you. It makes a positive difference for me.