When getting up in the morning becomes associated with an intense, sharp, stabbing sensation localized in the heel, the issue may be plantar fasciitis. Affecting nearly one-tenth of the population, it ranks among the most prevalent foot problems. Although common in middle age, anyone spending long periods on their feet may experience it. Shoe orthotics for plantar fasciitis help eliminate the pressure points that are responsible.
Orthotics is a general term that describes wearable inserts and devices designed to relieve foot pain. Commonly referred to as arch supports, they are more than simple foam pads. Supports are specifically designed to create a better foot angle that makes walking, running, or just standing feel more natural. They can help reduce existing sources of pain by altering the point of foot contact.
Because other conditions can have the same symptoms, self-diagnosis of the issue may miss more serious problems. When the pain becomes severe, is long-term, or makes normal movement difficult, an accurate diagnosis from a podiatrist is highly recommended. Although the discomfort may be minimal in many cases, complete recovery can take longer than a year. The most common solution is rest.
Stretching and strengthening exercises have also proven helpful, but may not be appropriate in all cases. Footwear that does not fit well is often to blame. Although they may not look as fashionable or svelte, shoes with relatively thick, cushioned soles made of dense materials that absorb impacts are best for active people. Those with low arches or so-called flat feet may need additional support.
While arches generally do actually collapse, they are often a source of discomfort. People born with them cannot absorb hard-surface impacts in the same way as those with ideal foot imprints. Additional support may be added by wearing specially made shoes, inserting cushioning pads, or by taping the foot daily. In some cases, these solutions provide greater relief than regularly using NSAID pain medications.
Relatively inexpensive over-the-counter supports are not a panacea, but can be helpful. Their benefits vary according to the materials used in manufacture, and some provide longer-lasting relief than others. The supporting material should be dense enough not to completely flatten, while still providing additional support during activity. They are especially helpful for growing adolescents.
For many adults the most successful solution is custom orthotics. An imprint is taken that clearly shows potential problem areas, allowing creation of an insert that reduces risk factors for heel pain. Most are more rigid than commercial varieties, and stress longitudinal support over the length of the foot. In some cases specific heel cups may also provide longer-term relief.
Although the cost of creating custom inserts is not insignificant, and may not be paid for by insurance, the outcome can be worth the investment. Foot pain makes all activities more difficult, and impacts all aspects of life. If taping, rest, strengthening and stretching exercises, and standard arch supports are not effective, orthotics created under the guidance of a doctor can be a welcome solution.
Orthotics is a general term that describes wearable inserts and devices designed to relieve foot pain. Commonly referred to as arch supports, they are more than simple foam pads. Supports are specifically designed to create a better foot angle that makes walking, running, or just standing feel more natural. They can help reduce existing sources of pain by altering the point of foot contact.
Because other conditions can have the same symptoms, self-diagnosis of the issue may miss more serious problems. When the pain becomes severe, is long-term, or makes normal movement difficult, an accurate diagnosis from a podiatrist is highly recommended. Although the discomfort may be minimal in many cases, complete recovery can take longer than a year. The most common solution is rest.
Stretching and strengthening exercises have also proven helpful, but may not be appropriate in all cases. Footwear that does not fit well is often to blame. Although they may not look as fashionable or svelte, shoes with relatively thick, cushioned soles made of dense materials that absorb impacts are best for active people. Those with low arches or so-called flat feet may need additional support.
While arches generally do actually collapse, they are often a source of discomfort. People born with them cannot absorb hard-surface impacts in the same way as those with ideal foot imprints. Additional support may be added by wearing specially made shoes, inserting cushioning pads, or by taping the foot daily. In some cases, these solutions provide greater relief than regularly using NSAID pain medications.
Relatively inexpensive over-the-counter supports are not a panacea, but can be helpful. Their benefits vary according to the materials used in manufacture, and some provide longer-lasting relief than others. The supporting material should be dense enough not to completely flatten, while still providing additional support during activity. They are especially helpful for growing adolescents.
For many adults the most successful solution is custom orthotics. An imprint is taken that clearly shows potential problem areas, allowing creation of an insert that reduces risk factors for heel pain. Most are more rigid than commercial varieties, and stress longitudinal support over the length of the foot. In some cases specific heel cups may also provide longer-term relief.
Although the cost of creating custom inserts is not insignificant, and may not be paid for by insurance, the outcome can be worth the investment. Foot pain makes all activities more difficult, and impacts all aspects of life. If taping, rest, strengthening and stretching exercises, and standard arch supports are not effective, orthotics created under the guidance of a doctor can be a welcome solution.
