Helping Your Plantar Fasciitis with Orthotics

Plantar fasciitis affects nearly 2 million people in the United States each year. It causes extreme heel pain as a result of inflammation of the plantar fascia at the base of your heel. You’re especially vulnerable if you have high arches or tight calf muscles.

Increasing your workout intensity or duration too quickly, poor foot mechanics, and wearing unsupportive shoes also contribute to plantar inflammation. A heel affected by plantar fasciitis has microtears, tissue degeneration, and inflammation.

Plantar fasciitis pain is most intense first thing in the morning, when you step out of bed. You may not feel pain as intensely when you walk and exercise, but once you rest – the pain returns.

Medication can help ease the pain, but it doesn’t correct the reason you developed plantar fasciitis in the first place. Plantar fasciitis is tricky to treat and symptoms, once they set in, can take months to resolve.

If you’ve struggled with this heel pain, you know you need professional help to heal. Custom orthotics are a way to help you find relief. The sooner you seek help, the better your chances of healing.

At Go Feet in Mays Landing, and Linwood, New Jersey, the experienced podiatric team explains why orthotics are a great treatment option if you’re struggling with plantar fasciitis pain.

HOW ORTHOTICS CAN HELP PLANTAR FASCIITIS?

Customized orthotics are made to fit the shape of your foot. Unlike over-the-counter options, the orthotics are made to correct any structural irregularities that may be contributing to your pain. For example, they can prevent an irregular foot strike that contributes to plantar fascia inflammation.

The way your foot is shaped and bears weight can contribute to plantar fasciitis. High or low arches may be responsible for your heel pain; orthotics can support a high arch or provide cushioning to a low arch.

Orthotics help normalize your gait, so you don’t put undue pressure and stress on the heel pad. This can reduce and heal plantar fasciitis pain. Orthotics also help prevent the formation of bunions and heel spurs.

WHAT OTHER TREATMENTS ARE AVAILABLE?

Orthotics are part of a comprehensive plan to address your pain and dysfunction from plantar fasciitis.

You’ll benefit from rest and movement modification. Giving the plantar fascia a break helps it heal and prevents further damage.

Your podiatrist may recommend physical therapy to improve your calf, Achilles tendon, and foot flexibility and function. When these tissues are tight or immobile, it puts extra stress on the plantar fascia, aggravating inflammation.

Because the plantar fascia is located so far away from the heart, it also suffers from a lack of blood flow. Physical therapy exercises also improves blood flow to the plantar fascia, which aids in reducing inflammation and oxygenating the tissue.

Don’t just tolerate the pain from plantar fasciitis or give up the activities you love to do. Call one of the convenient locations in the Mays Landing, and Linwood, New Jersey areas, or use the online tool to schedule. We’re available to help you with all your foot and ankle needs. Reach out at the first signs of pain, before plantar fasciitis becomes chronic.