jeudi 18 décembre 2014

How Shoe Orthotics For Plantar Fasciitis Reduce Foot Discomfort

By Claudine Hodges


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 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.

Exercises to stretch and strengthen the foot are also helpful, but may not be useful in every situation. Poorly fitting shoes are the number-one cause of pain. Even though they might be considered less than stylish, footwear with comparatively cushioned, thick soles constructed from impact-absorbing, dense materials is best during activity. People with flat feet due to low arches may require greater 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.

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.

The most promising solution for many adults involves custom-made orthotics. Potential problem areas can be revealed by taking a foot imprint, which forms the template for the creation of an insert specific to the problem. They are generally more rigid than commonly sold versions, and provide greater longitudinal support. The addition of heel cups may be necessary in stubborn cases.

The cost of customized inserts can be significant, and may not be covered by all medical insurance, but the results may be well worth the expense. Chronic foot pain negatively affects nearly every aspect of waking life. When strengthening, taping, rest, or standard inserts prove ineffective, orthotics fitted with the help of a physician may be the best solution.




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