Heel pain can make any and every daily activity feel difficult. Getting out of bed in the morning, standing at work, or going for a walk all become uncomfortable when the bottom of your foot hurts. One of the most common causes of this type of pain is plantar fasciitis.
Plantar fasciitis happens when a thick band of tissue along the bottom of the foot becomes irritated. This tissue, called the plantar fascia, supports the arch of your foot and helps absorb pressure when you stand. It runs from the front of your heel all the way to your toes, and it acts like a spring for your body. When too much strain is placed on it over time, it can become overused and pain can develop in the heel or arch.
Plantar Fasciitis Can Affect Everyday Life
Plantar fasciitis pain is often described as:
- Sharp pain in the heel when taking the first few steps in the morning
- Discomfort after standing for long periods
- Pain that gets worse after activity or exercise
- Tightness in the arch or bottom of the foot
- Soreness that can spread into the ankle or calf, from compensating
Several factors can increase the risk of plantar fasciitis, including:
- Flat feet or high arches
- Unsupportive or poorly fitting footwear
- Standing or walking for long hours
- Sudden increases in exercise or activity
- Tight calf muscles
- Extra pressure on the feet from weight gain or pregnancy
Ignoring the pain can sometimes make symptoms worse. That is why it is important to address the cause of the problem early.
How Custom Foot Orthotics Can Help
Custom Foot Orthotics are designed to support the feet based on your unique shape, movement, and pressure patterns. Unlike over-the-counter insoles, custom orthotics are made specifically for your feet.
For plantar fasciitis, orthotics help by:
- Supporting the arch of the foot
- Reducing strain on the plantar fascia
- Improving foot alignment during walking
- Redistributing pressure away from painful areas
- Providing extra cushioning under the heel
- Helping reduce fatigue in the feet and legs
Custom orthotics are often most effective when combined with other treatments, such as:
- Stretching the calves and plantar fascia
- Wearing supportive shoes
- Reducing activities that aggravate the pain
- Strengthening the muscles in the feet and lower legs
The Role of a Canadian Certified Pedorthist
A Canadian Certified Pedorthist is trained to assess how your feet move and how that movement may be contributing to pain.
During an assessment, they will:
- Review your symptoms and medical history
- Examine the structure of your feet
- Assess how you walk and stand
- Look at footwear for signs of uneven wear
- Recommend supportive shoes or footwear changes
- Determine whether custom orthotics may be appropriate
- Suggest complimentary items and therapies
If orthotics are recommended, they are designed and built based on your specific needs rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
Tips to Help Prevent Plantar Fasciitis
Even after pain improves, it is important to continue supporting your feet to help prevent symptoms from returning.
Helpful prevention tips include:
- Wear supportive footwear indoors and outdoors
- Replace worn-out shoes regularly
- Stretch the calves and feet daily
- Avoid walking barefoot on hard surfaces
- Increase activity levels gradually
- Maintain good foot support during exercise
- Address foot pain early before it worsens
Plantar fasciitis can be frustrating, but it is often manageable with the right support. Custom orthotics, supportive footwear, stretching, and professional assessment can all play a role in reducing pain and improving comfort. Taking early action by seeing a Canadian Certified Pedorthist will help you stay active and avoid more persistent foot problems in the future.
