Plantar Fasciitis and Footwear Modifications
Heel pain is a common issue among patients who are overweight, as the excess bodyweight puts additional strain on the feet. This increased pressure can cause tightness in the calf muscles, which in turn pulls on the Achilles tendon, leading to further strain on the heel bone.
Frequently, excessive strain on the feet can lead to the development of heel spurs, which are bony outgrowths on the heels. In most cases, these spurs do not cause any discomfort, as the main culprit of pain is typically the inflammation of the plantar fascia, a band of tissue that supports the arch of the foot.
The plantar fascia is a tough, fibrous band of tissue that links the heel bone to the toes. It plays a vital role in providing mechanical support to the foot. However, due to repeated stressors such as excessive physical activity, improper footwear, or obesity, the plantar fascia can become inflamed. This condition is known as plantar fasciitis and can be quite painful.
Treatment for plantar fasciitis typically includes activity modifications, orthotics, medications and exercise to address its pain in most of its cases within three to six months.
Custom foot orthotics provide structural support and ease the symptoms of plantar fasciitis. They come in soft or hard materials, depending on personal needs, with different sizes to meet individual requirements.
Performance insoles may also help lower the risk of plantar fasciitis by reducing shock impact, alleviating nerve compression and encouraging more natural gait patterns. They come at various price points from reputable companies who adhere to industry best practices.
Other conservative treatment options include icing, orthotics, anti-inflammatory medication and weight reduction to lighten the load on feet. If needed, physical therapy or night splints may also help maintain neutral foot positioning.
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