Ouch! Plantar Fasciitis Hurts.
Stepping on Pain? Plantar Fasciitis Explained and How Orthotics Can Help
Plantar fasciitis is a common culprit behind heel pain, especially for active individuals. It occurs when the plantar fascia, a ligament stretching along the sole of your foot, becomes inflamed. This inflammation leads to sharp, stabbing pain, often worse in the mornings and after periods of rest.
Understanding Plantar Fasciitis:
Causes: Repetitive stress, tight calf muscles, excessive pronation (rolling inward) of the foot, and obesity can all contribute to plantar fasciitis.
Symptoms: The hallmark symptom is a sharp pain in the heel, especially upon taking the first steps in the morning or after getting up from a seated position.
How Custom Orthotics Can Help:
Custom orthotics are shoe inserts designed and crafted specifically for your feet. They offer targeted support to address the root cause of plantar fasciitis pain:
Pressure Redistribution: Orthotics strategically distribute your weight across the foot, reducing pressure on the inflamed plantar fascia.
Arch Support: For individuals with flat arches or excessive pronation, orthotics provide essential arch support, promoting proper foot alignment and reducing stress on the plantar fascia.
Cushioning: Custom orthotics act as shock absorbers, minimizing the impact on your heel during activities like walking or running.
Benefits of Custom Orthotics:
Targeted Relief: Unlike generic inserts, custom orthotics address your specific foot anatomy and biomechanics, providing more effective pain relief.
Improved Comfort: The customized fit ensures optimal comfort and reduces the risk of irritation compared to generic options.
Long-Term Management: By addressing the underlying causes of pain, custom orthotics can offer sustained relief and prevent future flare-ups.