The Broom Stick Exercise
How to use a broom stick to relieve heel pain, heel spurs, plantar fasciitis and just
generally achy tired feet
The Broom Stick Exercise
If you suffer from heel pain, heel spurs, plantar fasciitis, or just tired, aching feet after a long day, the broomstick exercise is a simple at-home technique that can make a big difference. It’s a podiatrist-approved method we often use in clinic to help relieve tension in the arch and restore flexibility to the plantar fascia.
Why It Helps
The plantar fascia is the thick band of tissue running along the bottom of your foot. When it gets tight, it can cause heel pain and contribute to conditions like plantar fasciitis or heel spurs.
Using a broomstick as a massage and stretching tool helps to:
- Relieve tightness in the arch
- Break up scar tissue in the plantar fascia
- Improve foot flexibility
- Reduce heel and arch pain
How to Do the Broomstick Exercise
Place a broomstick on the ground
Make sure it’s stable and won’t roll away.
Avoid the bony parts of the foot
Do not roll over the heel bone or the ball of your foot’s bony joints. Focus on the soft tissue of the arch.
Step onto the broomstick
Place the ball of your foot just over the edge of the stick.
March along the arch
Step down firmly with a “1, 2, 3, 4” rhythm, then move slightly forward along the stick. Repeat this process, slowly working from the ball of your foot toward the heel.
Work both directions
Once you reach the back of your heel—or if it becomes too painful—go back the other way.
Repeat 8 passes
March up and down about eight times in total.
⚠ Important: If your pain increases, stop immediately. This exercise should feel like a release—not a strain.
When to Use This Exercise
- At the first signs of plantar fasciitis or heel pain
- To loosen stiff arches after a long day standing or walking
- As part of a daily foot care routine to prevent injury
Extra Support for Heel Pain
While exercises like the broomstick technique can provide relief, combining them with proper footwear and orthotic support gives the best results.
At Ergonx, we recommend:
Ergonx Ultra Soft Orthotic Insoles – our most supportive and cushioned insole for heel pain, plantar fasciitis, and aching feet.
Ergonx Elements Work Boots – designed with built-in arch support to reduce plantar fascia strain and keep your feet supported all day.
Together, these products and exercises can help relieve heel pain, improve comfort, and keep you on your feet without fatigue.
✅ Tip: For a full guide on relieving plantar fasciitis at home, check out our free resource: Professional Tips for Treating Foot Pain at Home – A Podiatrist’s Guide
If heel pain is slowing you down, it might be time for boots that actually support your feet. 👉 Shop online now – your plantar fascia will thank you.
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Ergonx Safety Boots Lace Up (Helium) All Tan
Regular price $310.00 NZDRegular priceUnit price per -
Ergonx Safety Boots Lace Up (Helium) Black
Regular price $310.00 NZDRegular priceUnit price per -
Ergonx Orthotic Safety Shoe Lace Up (LITHIUM) Black
Regular price $286.00 NZDRegular priceUnit price per -
Ergonx All Tan Low Cut Safety Boots Lace Up (Helium)
Regular price $310.00 NZDRegular priceUnit price per
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