Plantar fasciitis is the most common form of heel pain in the United States. The plantar fascia is a bowstring-shaped band of tissue that connects your heel to the toes. This band supports the arch of your foot and provides shock absorption when walking. Plantar fasciitis occurs when the stress and tension become too great. When this happens, small tears occur and create a vicious cycle of pain and inflammation.
This condition is characterized by pain in the heel when first waking up in the morning, stabbing pain in the heel after periods of rest, and at times with prolonged activity. The pain can come and go in cycles, which can be most frustrating when trying to treat this common condition.
Anyone can develop plantar fasciitis, however, here are some of the most prominent risk factors:
- Prolonged walking or standing
- Pregnant
- If you are between 40-60 years of age
- Flexible flat feet/ high arches
- Overweight
- Engage in certain activities such as endurance running, high-impact activities
- Have an abnormal gait
What are the typical treatment options for PF?
Treatments range from a steroid injection, recommendations for an oral NSAID, ice or heat to the affected area, physical therapy, custom or over-the-counter inserts and even altering a patient’s footwear. The results may vary with each treatment or individual, but one of the most important pieces of the healing process is using inserts and footwear which is often overlooked.
Our feet are our transportation and foundation, and when unsupported, this can lead to many conditions related to the lower extremities such as plantar fasciitis, knee, hip, and even back pain. What we choose to put on our feet can make or break the functionality of our daily routines.
What are important factors to look for in over-the-counter inserts?
Arch support
Arch support is important to improve proper foot alignment and equalize the weight distribution from heel to toe. Arch support provides stability while improving balance and distributing pressure across the feet. This can help with the reduction of pain. Not only does this help with pain, but it also improves alignment throughout the joints of your body.
Shock absorption
Shock absorption can improve force distribution while doing daily activities with the correct Insert and footwear. In looking for an over-the-counter insert, it is best to seek one that properly offloads the plantar fascia to begin the healing process.
Alignment
Alignment allows the body to function more efficiently, while properly activating each joint and muscle of the lower extremity.
Proper fit in a shoe
A proper shoe fit requires the insole to fit comfortably inside the shoe without the heel or insole slipping with activity.
What medi foot support is best for plantar fasciitis?
medi foot care Insoles offer an over-the-counter option to target this painful condition called the protect Plantar Fasciitis. This orthotic is designed to anatomically cushion the origin of the plantar fascia while providing support to the inside arch of the foot (medial longitudinal arch). This orthotic is hand-crafted, and German-engineered with multiple layers of materials to cushion, support, and align the foot.
