Plantar fasciitis and other conditions are often improved simply by wearing the "right" shoes

By Truman Lewis of ConsumerAffairs

Feet hurt? You're not alone. Nearly everybody suffers from some kind of foot pain at one time or another. And in most cases, it's not from running marathons or toting heavy barges all the live long day, it's from wearing the wrong kind of shoe.

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common foot complaints and people try all kinds of remedies, from shoes to inserts to flexibility training. Experts may not always agree on everything but most agree that choosing shoes that dont properly support the arch or absorb heel shock can aggravatethe condition instead of helping it heal.

Plantar fasciitis is inflammation or microtearing in the plantar fascia (a thick band of connective tissue on the bottom of the foot, running from heel to toes). It tends to hurt most at the heel, especially with first steps in the morning or after resting.

Because of that, the ideal shoe, according to a recent Health report, should:

• Cushion the heel / absorb shock every time you walk, the heel impact should be softened so more force is borne by the shoe, not the fascia.

• Stabilize / support the arch you dont want your arch to collapse or overstress the plantar fascia. A supportive midsole or arch insert helps with that.

• Have a firm heel cup / structured back this helps hold your heel in place, preventing unwanted sliding or twisting.

• Balance flexibility and rigidity the shoe should flex at the toes (for push-off) but resist torsion in the midfoot (so the arch doesnt collapse).

• Have a slight heel elevation (drop) a small heel lift (versus fully flat shoes) can reduce strain on the plantar fascia.

• Allow for customization removable insoles so you can insert orthotics or more supportive replacements is helpful.

• Fit well too tight shoes (especially in the toe box) or wrong length can increase stress. Some experts even suggest going a half size up if switching in stronger insoles.

When shoes lack these features (e.g. very flat shoes, poor cushioning, flimsy structure), they may exacerbate pain rather than help.

Common mistakes

Here are frequent missteps consumers take:

• Buying shoes just for looks or light cushioning without structural support.

• Relying purely on lots of cushion but on overly flexible or unstable shoes (can let the foot collapse).

• Using flat shoes or very low-drop shoes (e.g. many fashion flats, flip-flops) that provide no heel support.

• Keeping worn-out shoes long past their support life (midsole gives out). Many people forget that cushioning and structural support degrade over time.

• Choosing too narrow shoes, or shoes that squeeze toes, which can change gait mechanics or strain parts of the foot.

• Neglecting to wear supportive shoes even when just walking around at home experts often note that barefoot at home without support can delay healing.

To help you take the right steps, here's a neutral buyers guide. It contains nocommercial bias or paid shopping links.

Buyers Guide: Choosing the Right Shoe for Plantar Fasciitis

What to Look For

1. Firm, supportive arch
Look for shoes with a defined arch that matches your foots natural contour. Soft, flat shoes may feel nice at first but can let the fascia overstretch.

A shoe should stabilize your foot, not let it collapse inward, says Dr. Elizabeth Daughtry, DPM, quoted in Business Insider. Arch support keeps pressure off the inflamed tissue.

2. Deep heel cup
The heel should sit securely in a structured cup that prevents side-to-side rolling. This stabilizes your gait and reduces micro-trauma each time your heel hits the ground.

3. Cushioning with structure
Opt for midsoles that cushion without being mushy. EVA foam, gel pods, or air cells help absorb impact, but the shoe should still feel stable through the arch and heel.

4. Slight heel-to-toe drop
A raised heel (about 610 mm higher than the forefoot) reduces the tension on the plantar fascia. Completely flat shoes or minimalist designs are usually too harsh.

5. Rigid midfoot / flexible forefoot
When you twist the shoe gently, it should resist bending in the middle but flex at the ball of the foot. That combination keeps your arch stable while allowing a natural stride.

6. Removable insoles
A removable insole lets you upgrade to custom or over-the-counter orthotics a big plus if you have a unique arch or recurring pain pattern.

7. Proper fit and toe room
Tight toe boxes or overly narrow shoes alter gait mechanics and can worsen strain. Aim for snug around the heel and midfoot, but with wiggle room for your toes.

Examples of good shoe types & models

While no shoe is perfect for every foot, here are styles that are often recommended (and well-reviewed) for people with plantar fasciitis:

From expert roundups:

• Hoka Bondi 9 often cited as a top overall pick because of plush cushioning, structured support, and the APMA (American Podiatric Medical Association) Seal of Acceptance.

• Hoka Clifton (version 10, etc.) a slightly lighter but still supportive option.

• Brooks models(e.g. Ghost, Adrenaline) known for balancing cushioning and support.

• Orthofeet has models with good arch support and comfort for walking.

• Dansko XP 2.0 (clogs) interesting option for people who need slip-on comfort but still want structure.

• Oofos / OOfos (recovery shoes / slides) good for wearing around the home as supplemental support.

Red Flags: Signs Youre Buying the Wrong Shoe

• Flat or overly flexible sole offers no arch or heel support.

• Memory foam only soft but unstable under load.

• Excessive wear midsoles compress over time, losing support even if the shoe looks fine.

• No heel counter flimsy heel fabric or thin backing lets the foot roll.

• Too fashion-focused ballet flats, flip-flops, or soft slip-ons rarely provide structure.

People often buy for cushioning alone, but what they really need is controlled cushioning support that limits motion, not just softness, says Dr. Elvis Danne, DPM, quoted in Forbes.

How to Test a Shoe In-Store

1. Bend test: Try folding the shoe in half it should bend near the toes, not the arch.

2. Twist test: Hold the toe and heel and try to wring it like a towel. A good shoe resists twisting.

3. Heel press: Press the heel counter. It should feel firm, not collapsible.

4. Walk test: Walk briskly. Your arch should feel gently lifted, and your heel should land softly but securely.

5. Try both feet: Many people have slightly different arches; make sure both feet feel supported.

Replacement Rule of Thumb

Even the best shoes wear out. Replace every 300500 miles of walking or running roughly every six months for frequent walkers.

The midsole loses structure long before the tread shows it, says Dr. Danne. If your heel pain returns, thats often the sign your shoe has aged out.

Optional Add-Ons

• Heel cups or orthotic inserts add extra lift and contour.

• Compression socks reduce inflammation during long periods of standing.

• Night splints keep the fascia gently stretched overnight.

These dont replace good shoes but can help reinforce your recovery routine.

The Bottom Line

The right shoe for plantar fasciitis feels structured, not just soft.
Think supportive frame, cushioned ride, firm heel, stable arch.
The wrong shoe even an expensive one can make healing take months longer.

The Labor Department aims to release the September Data by Oct. 24

By Mark Huffman of ConsumerAffairs

• The September Consumer Price Index (CPI) report a key ingredient in determining the annual Social Security cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) will be delayed due to a partial government shutdown.

• Without that CPI data, the Social Security Administration (SSA) cannot formally calculate or announce the 2026 COLA until the inflation measure is released. (

• The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) is recalling some furloughed staff to produce the September CPI by October 24 so that the COLA announcement can proceed albeit behind schedule.

The ongoing partial shutdown of the federal government has triggered an unexpected delay in the release of Septembers Consumer Price Index, casting uncertainty over the otherwise routine fall announcement of the Social Security cost-of-living adjustment.

Under normal circumstances, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) publishes the September CPI report by mid-October, and the Social Security Administration follows shortly thereafter with its COLA announcement. But with most BLS operations suspended due to the funding lapse, the final piece of inflation data needed to determine next years benefit increase was stalled.

To resolve the impasse, the Department of Labor is recalling a cadre of furloughed workers to resume critical processing of the inflation data. The BLS has now committed to releasing the September CPI on October 24, enabling the SSA to compute and announce the 2026 COLA shortly thereafter.

Why the CPI matters for Social Security

The COLA is not a discretionary boost it is calculated automatically based on inflation as measured by the CPI for urban wage earners and clerical workers (CPI-W). Concretely, the SSA compares the average index reading for July, August, and September of the current year against the same months a year earlier. That percentage difference, rounded to the nearest tenth, becomes the COLA for the coming year.

Since September is the final data point in that three-month window, its release is essential. Without it, the SSA cannot legally or technically finalize the rate.

Because Social Security and related benefits are funded through mandatory spending, the shutdown does not interrupt monthly payments to retirees, disabled beneficiaries, or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients.

Though the payments continue, millions of Americans rely on knowing their COLA ahead of time to plan household budgets, especially under tight fixed incomes. The delay leaves them in limbo until the rate is confirmed.

With the CPI slated for October 24, the SSA will have only a narrow window to process, validate, and announce the COLA, which by law must be done by November 1. That compressed schedule increases the risk of administrative strain or further slippage.

Super-luxury meets super-hot: Bentley, Hyundai, and Altec headline another week heavy on fire hazards

Grabber Recall of the Week

Bentley Continental GT, GTC, Flying Spur (20252026)
High-pressure fuel pumps may leak, creating a fire risk near the engine bay (25V648). Even six-figure luxury cant buy immunity from bad fuel fittings.

Other Notable Mentions

• Fire Risk Triple Threat: Hyundai, Altec, and REV Group all logged recalls tied to electrical or fuel-related overheating hazards.

• Steering Disaster Candidate: Autocar trucks recalled for steering wheel separation (25V660) a literal loss of control.

• Software Snafu: Chrysler RAM ProMaster vans recalled for software-induced loss of drive power (25V665).

• Tech Trouble for Toyota: Two separate Toyota recalls this week one for rearview camera failures, another for bad seat welds in the Sienna Hybrid.

This Weeks Tally

• Fire hazards: 6 recalls

• Trucks & trailers: 3 recalls

• EV/battery systems: 2 recalls

• Trim/body or seat issues: 3 recalls

• Buses/vans: 2 recalls

• Visibility/electronics: 3 recalls

• RVs/recreation: 2 recalls

Full Recall Roundup

Fire Hazards

• Bentley Continental GT, GTC, Flying Spur (202526): High-pressure fuel pump may leak fire risk (25V648).

• Hyundai Santa Fe (202425): Improper starter wiring fire risk (25V659).

• Altec FOSV-CA (2024): Battery cables may overheat fire risk (25V661).

• Altec ST600 (202225): Auxiliary engine circuit overheating fire risk (25V663).

• REV Group (Fleetwood Fortis, Holiday Rambler Invicta 202426): Seat fasteners may damage propane hoses fire risk (25V664).

• Forest River Entourage (202526): Leaf spring bolt failure may lead to damage and potential fire risk (25V662).

Trucks & Heavy Vehicles

• Autocar Legend, Xpeditor (202326): Steering wheel may separate loss of steering control (25V660).

• Mack Anthem, Granite, MD, Pinnacle (201925): Improperly welded seat belt anchors FMVSS 210 noncompliance (25V666).

• RAM ProMaster (202425): Software issue may cause loss of drive power (25V665).

EV & Battery Systems

• Mack MD Electric (2024): Seat belt anchor weld flaw safety noncompliance (25V666).

• Altec FOSV-CA (2024): Battery cable overheating fire risk (25V661).

Trim, Seats & Structure

• Toyota Sienna Hybrid (2025): Improperly welded seat rails occupant injury risk (25V668).

• Winnebago Access (2025): Improperly installed shelf potential injury risk (25V673).

• Forest River Flagstaff, Rockwood (2026): Sewer gas may enter vehicle ventilation defect (25V681).

Visibility & Electronics

• Toyota Sequoia Hybrid (202325); Tundra/Tundra Hybrid (202225): Rearview camera may fail visibility hazard (25V657).

• Tesla Model Y (2026): Reverse lights may not illuminate FMVSS 108 noncompliance (25V658).

• Alfa Romeo Giulia, Stelvio (202025): Rearview camera may fail visibility hazard (25V667).

Recall Leaderboard (Year-to-Date)

         Ford (3)
    BMW (2)      Porsche (2)

(Bentley, Hyundai, and Altec make strong bids for next weeks podium.)

Takeaway

Fire remains the dominant theme this fall from luxury Bentleys to workhorse Altec trucks, flames are finding their way into every price point. Toyotas camera woes and Autocars steering problems round out a week where safety systems failed at both the high and heavy ends of the market.

Check your VIN at NHTSA.gov/recalls to confirm if your vehicle is affected.

Bills are the single largest expense category for US households

By Mark Huffman of ConsumerAffairs

• U.S. households spend nearly one-third of their incomeabout $24,700 a yearon essential bills, according to a new doxoINSIGHTS 2025 report.

• Inflation, rising costs, and security concerns are straining Americans finances, with 77% saying their situation has worsened since last year.

• Identity fraud fears and a desire for simpler, more secure payment tools are reshaping how consumers manage their bills.

A new doxoINSIGHTS 2025 Report: The Bill Pay Economy, reveals that Americans are spending a median of $24,695 annually, or about 31% of household income, on essential bills, showing the growing financial strain facing U.S. families.

Collectively, households pay $4.55 trillion each year across 13 core expenses, from rent and mortgages to utilities, insurance, and mobile services.

Bills are the single largest expense category for American households, and our findings show that paying them is not only financially burdensome but also emotionally stressful, said Steve Shivers, co-founder and CEO at doxo. From growing fears of fraud to the strain of rising costs, households are looking for better, safer, and more convenient ways to manage payments.

Inflation and financial stress take a toll

The report paints a sobering picture of financial pressure. More than three-quarters (77%) of adults say their financial situation is worse than a year ago, and nearly half have reduced savings or delayed major purchases to keep up with bills.

About 17% admit to delaying at least one bill each month, and 45% say they wouldnt be able to cover three months of expenses if their income stoppedillustrating how thin household financial buffers have become.

Beyond the cost of bills themselves, Americans are increasingly anxious about the risks of paying them.

Eighty-six percent worry about stolen payment information, 84% are concerned about identity fraud, and 83% fear credit score damage from missed or late payments. Meanwhile, 67% dread late fees and 57% worry about overdraft penalties.

Identity theft anxiety is rising sharply: 43% say theyre more concerned about fraud this year than last, marking one of the fastest-growing consumer fears.

How and when Americans pay

Despite these concerns, the ways Americans pay their bills are diverse. Most prefer digital payments biller websites and bank portals dominate but traditional methods like mail and in-person payments still persist for certain bills.

Automated payments are gaining traction: 42% of mobile bills are auto-paid, while only 9% of rent payments are set up that way. Payment activity peaks early in the week, especially on Monday and Friday mornings.

According to the survey, Americans are signaling a clear demand for more efficient, stress-free bill management. Sixty-five percent want email reminders, 60% want mobile-friendly options, and 55% would prefer an all-in-one platform that consolidates multiple bills securely. Nearly half (46%) want the flexibility to choose between different payment methods, like bank transfers, credit, or debit, depending on their cash flow.

University of Michigan survey shows consumers feel a little better about their finances

By Mark Huffman of ConsumerAffairs

• Surveys of Consumers Director Joanne Hsu: Consumer sentiment moved sideways this month.

• At 55 index points, sentiment is virtually unchanged from September.

• Weakness in expectations for future personal finances and durable-goods conditions offset gains in current finances and business outlooks.

The University of Michigans preliminary consumer sentiment index for October held nearly flat at 55.0, a modest dip from Septembers final 55.1, signaling little change in how Americans view their financial prospects and the broader economy.

Surveys of Consumers Director Joanne Hsu emphasized said there there were modest improvements in assessments of current personal finances and year-ahead business conditions, but they were counterbalanced by declines in expectations for future personal finances and current buying conditions for durable goods.

Overall, she judged that consumers saw very few changes in the outlook for the economy compared to last month.

Key subindexes and inflation sentiment

• The Current Economic Conditions subindex rose to 61.0 from 60.4 in September, pointing to a slight improvement in how households feel about their immediate financial situation.

• The Expectations subindex slipped to 51.2 from 51.7, reflecting softer sentiment about what lies ahead.

• Year-ahead inflation expectations eased slightly to 4.6% (from 4.7% last month), while long-run expectations held steady at 3.7%.

• Compared to a year ago, both inflation expectations and the overall index remain well below their longer-term peaks earlier this year.

Drivers and headwinds

Consumers continue to wrestle with pocketbook pressures, such as persistent high prices and anxiety over job stability. Hsu noted that many households do not currently anticipate meaningful improvement in these areas.

Interviews conducted during the survey period found little indication that the ongoing federal government shutdown has significantly altered views of the economy. Still, the weak overall reading comes at a challenging time: with other economic benchmarks such as labor market data delayed or in flux, the Michigan survey is among the few timely gauges of public confidence available.

Analysts warn that the flat reading underscores a fragile undercurrent in consumer behavior. With inflation outlooks still elevated and wage growth under pressure, households may rein in discretionary spending should conditions worsen.