If getting out of bed in the morning is punctuated by an intensely sharp pain in the heel, plantar fasciitis may be the culprit. One in ten people experience it, and many have long-term issues. The condition is most common during middle age, but is also a problem for younger people who are physically active. Shoe orthotics for plantar fasciitis help eliminate the sources of pressure responsible for causing discomfort.
Orthotics is a term describing shoe inserts designed to eliminate pressure on the foot. They are commonly known as arch supports, but the job they do involves more than just placing a foam pad inside a shoe. Supports are designed to make standing, walking and even running feel more natural, reduce existing pain, and prevent future problems from developing by changing the way feet meet the ground.
A number of conditions produce similar symptoms, and self-diagnosis of chronic heel pain may overlook a more serious problem. If pain is severe, long lasting, or causes problems moving about, it is important to receive an accurate diagnosis from a podiatrist. In most cases discomfort is limited, but still may take more than a year to resolve. Rest is one of the most-recommended solutions.
In some cases exercises that stretch and strengthen the foot are useful, but not in all situations. The most common culprit is ill-fitting shoes. While they may not be as fashionable outwardly, footwear that has cushioned, thick soles composed of dense, impact-absorbing materials are beneficial for active adults. People who have low arches, or so-called flat feet, often require extra support.
Although arches actually do not collapse, they can become a source of trouble. Those born with flat feet may not be able to absorb impacts as well as people with an ideally shaped footprint. The most common way to add support is through taping, wearing specially designed shoes, or by inserting foam pads. These solutions are often more effective in relieving pain than daily use of NSAID pain relievers.
While not a universal solution, common and relatively economical over-the-counter inserts can help. Their advantages vary depending on the materials used to make them, and some are more effective than others. The inserts need to be sturdy enough to resist complete flattening, while still giving support to areas most in need. For many adolescents who are still growing, they are ideal.
For most adults, custom designed orthotics provide a better option for long-term relief. Imprints are made to clearly define the problematic areas, and an insert intended to reduce risk factors is made based on that template. Compared to the commercial brands available, most are sturdier, and provide better longitudinal support for arches. Heel cups may be necessary to relieve the pressure of standing.
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 term describing shoe inserts designed to eliminate pressure on the foot. They are commonly known as arch supports, but the job they do involves more than just placing a foam pad inside a shoe. Supports are designed to make standing, walking and even running feel more natural, reduce existing pain, and prevent future problems from developing by changing the way feet meet the ground.
A number of conditions produce similar symptoms, and self-diagnosis of chronic heel pain may overlook a more serious problem. If pain is severe, long lasting, or causes problems moving about, it is important to receive an accurate diagnosis from a podiatrist. In most cases discomfort is limited, but still may take more than a year to resolve. Rest is one of the most-recommended solutions.
In some cases exercises that stretch and strengthen the foot are useful, but not in all situations. The most common culprit is ill-fitting shoes. While they may not be as fashionable outwardly, footwear that has cushioned, thick soles composed of dense, impact-absorbing materials are beneficial for active adults. People who have low arches, or so-called flat feet, often require extra support.
Although arches actually do not collapse, they can become a source of trouble. Those born with flat feet may not be able to absorb impacts as well as people with an ideally shaped footprint. The most common way to add support is through taping, wearing specially designed shoes, or by inserting foam pads. These solutions are often more effective in relieving pain than daily use of NSAID pain relievers.
While not a universal solution, common and relatively economical over-the-counter inserts can help. Their advantages vary depending on the materials used to make them, and some are more effective than others. The inserts need to be sturdy enough to resist complete flattening, while still giving support to areas most in need. For many adolescents who are still growing, they are ideal.
For most adults, custom designed orthotics provide a better option for long-term relief. Imprints are made to clearly define the problematic areas, and an insert intended to reduce risk factors is made based on that template. Compared to the commercial brands available, most are sturdier, and provide better longitudinal support for arches. Heel cups may be necessary to relieve the pressure of standing.
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.
0 comments:
Post a Comment