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.
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 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.
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.
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