Plantar Fasciitis

My heel is killing me. What is going on?

 

Plantar Fasciitis is the most common cause of heel pain and the most treated condition by pedorthists.

 

The Causes

 

  • Poor foot mechanics;
  • High arches or flat feet;canstockphoto9603921
  • Being overweight;
  • Low activity;
  • Improper footwear;
  • Aging;
  • Walking, standing, or running for long periods of time on hard surfaces;
  • Even, pregnancy, during which ligaments can stretch.

 

What is it?

 

The plantar fascia is a flat band tissue (ligament) that connects your heel bone to your toes, supporting the arch of the foot. If you strain it, it gets weak, swollen, irritated and inflamed. Micro tears in the tissue are the direct cause of the pain.

 

Symptoms

 

Most people with plantar fasciitis have pain when they take their first steps after they get out of bed or sit for a long time. You may have less stiffness and pain after you take a few steps. But your foot may hurt more as the day goes on. It may hurt the most when you climb stairs or after you stand for a long time.

 

Treatment

 

Once diagnosed by your physician, there are a number of ways your pedorthist can help:

  • Custom Foot Orthotics – may be recommended as they discreetly fit in your shoes and help control the foot and correct poor foot mechanics. Used in conjunction with proper footwear, may sufferers find relief and return to normal activities
  • Over-the-Counter Foot Orthotics – not as effective as custom-made foot orthotics, over-the-counter orthotics can provide some relief.
  • Night Splints – can also help keep the fascia stretched to prevent tightening while you sleep or rest.
  • Reduced activity – may be mandated to allow your ligament to heal. Remember, fresh pain means fresh micro tears so take it easy and get to your pedorthist for help sooner rather than later.
  • Stretching – of the calf muscle and plantar foot tissue on a daily basis, can have tremendous effect in the control of your symptoms. See our stretching video for help with this tip.

 

As with any pain, consult your physician first to determine the cause. Your doctor may refer you to a pedorthist, an orthotic and footwear expect, specifically trained in the education, training, design, and manufacturing of custom foot orthotics and footwear. We can help determine which treatment is right for you.

 

Start Your Journey Toward Pain-Free Living Today!

Get in touch with us at 705-342-7728 or at info@soundorthotics.com or come visit us at our 8 Murray Point Road location and set up your footcare consultation appointment.

Share This

Post This!

Share this post with your friends!