Heel pain – otherwise known as Plantar Fasciitis – is very painful and can occur first thing in the morning when getting out of bed or late at night especially if you are working on your feet all day.  Plantar fasciitis is a condition that causes pain and inflammation in the plantar fascia which is a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot.  One of the most common treatments for plantar fasciitis is the use of custom orthotics.

Custom orthotics can help treat plantar fasciitis by providing support and cushioning to the foot, which can reduce stress and strain on the plantar fascia.  Custom orthotics can help correct any biomechanical abnormalities or imbalances in the foot and ankle, which also may contribute to the development of this foot condition.

When designing custom orthotics for plantar fasciitis, a podiatrist will take into account the patient’s foot structure, the severity of the condition, and the patient’s activity level.  The orthotics may be designed to provide arch support, heel cushioning or a combination of both. 

Custom orthotics are created using a mold or scan of the patient’s foot, which captures its specific shape and size.  This mold is then used to create a custom device that is tailored to the patient’s specific needs.  Custom orthotics can be made from a variety of materials, including soft foam, rigid plastic or a combination of materials. 

Custom orthotics are different than shoe inserts in that a custom orthotic is made specifically for your foot.  You can find shoe inserts at grocery stores or even drug stores or maybe have seen and advertisement on TV or online.   Shoe inserts don’t require a prescription and can be worn inside a shoe, but they are not precise for your foot.  You might experience some short term relief, however, the pain from plantar fasciitis might return. 

Some other benefits from having custom orthotics include:  improved comfort and reduced pain, increased support and stability for the foot and ankle, improved foot and ankle function and reduced risk of injury.

When it comes to plantar fasciitis, custom orthotics might be one part of the comprehensive treatment plan.  Other treatment options may include, stretching, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications or even a cortisone injection.   Plantar fasciitis takes time to find relief and by scheduling an appointment with a podiatrist, they can determine the best course of treatment. 

Heel pain is a common condition and is treatable foot condition.  If you have heel pain, consider making an appointment with Dr. Margaret Withrow or Dr. Dylan Kaumaya with Roadrunner Foot and Ankle in Peoria Arizona.  We want you back on your feet and enjoying activities.