Do you feel pain in the heel of your foot, especially in the morning? Does the pain worsen after you exercise or after you’ve been walking around for a long period of time? If so, you may have plantar fasciitis.
Plantar fasciitis is inflammation (“-itis”) of the plantar fascia, which is the thick, strong band of tissue that stretches from your heel to your toes along the bottom of the foot. The arch of the foot, which is in the middle of the plantar fascia, must be properly supported in order to avoid inflammation and pain from developing.
If the arch isn’t supported, you could experience constant downward pressure on the arch, causing it to flatten and become inflamed. This can be due to things like being overweight or having a very active profession in which you are always on your feet.
To address this condition, your foot doctor may suggest using arch supports for your feet. Let’s talk about the role of arch supports in plantar fasciitis, and where you can go in Cincinnati for custom orthotics.
How Does Arch Support Ease Plantar Fasciitis?
You can get over-the-counter or customized orthotics to provide the needed arch support to relieve your heel pain. Arch supports serve as extra cushions for the plantar fascia, providing elevation and shape for the foot as you walk and run.
Athletic shoes are a good option, as they have internal arch support and cushioned soles. However, if you cannot (or don’t want to) wear athletic shoes every day, you will need customized arch support inserted in your shoes. You can also buy regular-looking shoes that are purposely shaped with arch support.
How Can My Plantar Fasciitis Heal?
Once you have the prescribed orthotic arch support, it is a good idea to enable your plantar fasciitis to naturally heal by doing the following:
- Minimize activity, so those tissues in your foot can rest and recuperate.
- Apply ice to the area to reduce inflammation. Be sure to wrap a towel around the ice pack, and do not apply it directly to the skin.
- Stretch your plantar fascia and foot area periodically throughout the day.
- Take pain-relieving medication as necessary.
- Wear night splints on your feet to keep your plantar fascia in the proper position.
Personalized Custom Orthotics in Greater Cincinnati
When it comes to arch support, one size does not necessarily fit all. The best way to get appropriate arch support to help relieve your heel pain is by consulting a foot doctor – formally called a podiatrist. A skilled podiatrist can efficiently take molds of your feet and actually create customized orthotics, or shoe inserts, that are designed specifically to provide arch support for your own feet and arches.
Here at Cincinnati Foot & Ankle Care, we have experienced podiatrists who know how to cater to various foot conditions. We offer arch support and custom orthotics to keep your feet comfortable and protected – no more heel pain.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment at any of our offices across the Cincinnati area, call our location near you or fill out our online appointment request form now. We hope to get you back on your feet as soon as possible!
