Managing Plantar Fasciitis With Orthotics
Our feet are more than just a way to get from Point A to Point B. They are the foundation that our bodies are built on. Similar to a building, if that foundation isn’t quite perfect there are repercussions throughout the rest of the structure, a.k.a the body. One common foot complaint that can result from a strained foot foundation is Plantar Fasciitis. It’s a painful condition that can affect your every day life but, fortunately, relief is available.
About Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar Fasciitis is extremely common, affecting approximately 2 million Americans every year. It’s estimated that 10% of the population will experience this pain at some point or another. The pain from this chronic condition can be debilitating at times and it can be very difficult to treat. It commonly manifests as stabbing heel and/or arch pain that is worse after resting. It’s not unusual for the pain to hit with your first steps in the morning only to fade as your foot limbers up.
The condition is the result of a stressed ligament that supports the foot arch. It is called the plantar fascia and it connects the heel bone to the toes. It’s kind of like a shock absorber for your foot but if it gets pulled too tightly or stretched too much the muscle can tear which leads to pain and inflammation. It’s hard to give our feet a rest, which makes it hard to manage the inflammation.
This pain and inflammation can have repercussions throughout the body since it may cause you to walk or exercise less or adjust your walking pattern to ease pressure on that area of the foot. Unfortunately, that throws off your body mechanics and can lead to foot, ankle, hip, knee and back pain in addition to other health problems that stem from lack of exercise.
Who is at risk for suffering from Plantar Fasciitis?
Many people are at risk of developing Plantar Fasciitis. Although it most commonly strikes between the ages of 40 and 60, it’s common in:
- Runners, especially long-distance runners.
- Those who are overweight.
- Anyone who has poor arch support or flat feet.
- Anyone whose exercise routine places a lot of strain or pressure on the heel or arch.
- People who spend a lot of time on their feet for work.
How Orthotics are an effective plantar fasciitis treatment
Custom molded insoles or orthotics correct the posture of the foot and redistribute pressure on your foot so it’s more evenly spread out. If the problem is caused by flat feet or over pronation, orthotics can support the arch which takes pressure off of the plantar fascia ligament.
This redistribution of pressure and added support for the foot has far-reaching benefits for the body. Orthotics correct basic structural problems in the foot. This helps the body stay in its natural alignment. That means there’s less pressure on the ankles, knees, hips and lower back as well as reduced pressure on the plantar fascia. You may find that once you try orthotics for your Plantar Fasciitis that other aches and pains disappear too. That’s because the body has been put back into its natural state and everything is moving in perfect coordination again.
Orthotics are easy to use. Simply replace the insoles that came with your shoes with your custom orthotics and wear them every time you put anything on your feet. In a short amount of time your body will adjust to the new insoles and you’ll be feeling relief.
Schedule your FREE foot evaluation
You’ll learn and see how your feet, knees, hips and back will benefit from custom molded shoe inserts. Use our online scheduler, or call 651-429-3333 to ask questions or schedule your appointment.
