What are Custom Orthotics?

Custom orthotics are medical devices that are designed specifically for your feet. They are made using detailed measurements of your feet, with an impression of your foot taken, either with a plaster cast, foam box, wax cast, or 3D scanner. Unlike over-the-counter insoles that are generic and usually only provide cushioning, they will have features specific to your needs and foot type. They help to redistribute the weight and pressure evenly across your feet, helping to align your feet and lower extremities. Custom orthotics are a medical tool that helps improve the way forces move through your body rather than just add extra cushioning in your shoes.

Do They Actually Work?

This is one of the most asked questions, and yes, there is research that suggests that custom orthotics are highly effective at lowering foot pain and disability. Custom orthotics are not only helpful for reducing heel pain, but can be used for a variety of different foot conditions such as:

• Plantar fasciitis
• High arches
• Flat feet
• Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction (PTTD)
• Arthritic feet
• Metatarsalgia or pain in the balls of the feet
• Achilles tendon pain
• Certain knee conditions
• Leg length differences

Published articles have shown people with heel pain or plantar fasciitis often experience a meaningful improvement in daily function and pain level when using custom orthotics. Other studies have shown improvement in a person’s activity level due to custom orthotics improving their biomechanics of the foot.

Custom Orthotics are designed to manage abnormal forces and improve comfort and movement. They may

• Improve foot alignment
• Increase stability
• Help distribute pressure more evenly
• Reduce stress on injured tissues
• Help prevent symptoms from returning
• Prevent wound development in diabetes

However, they do not permanently change the shape of your foot or cure your condition. Just like glasses improve your vision while wearing them but do not change your eyesight, orthotics help improve your foot function during weight-bearing activities, but do not change your foot type.

More to the Puzzle

One of the biggest misconceptions about custom orthotics is that they will instantly “cure” your foot pain and that they are the only solution you should use. The truth is that the best outcomes come from a combination of treatment options such as:

• Strengthening and stretching exercises
• Properly fitted, supportive footwear
• Bracing for additional support
• Foot skin/nail care, such as filing corns or callous

Addressing all of these factors will lead to better long-term outcomes rather than relying on one treatment alone.

Is It Time to Consider Custom Orthotics?

If you have been suffering from foot pain for longer than a few weeks, or if it keeps returning, or is limiting your ability to do activities you love, it is time to seek help. A BioPed clinician will evaluate your feet, your gait and the biomechanics of your lower limbs to determine the best treatment options for you. The evidence is there: custom orthotics work, and a BioPed clinician can help you move more comfortably, so you can get back to doing the things you love the most.

The post Can Custom Orthotics Help with My Foot Problems? appeared first on Relieve Foot Pain & Leg Pain.

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the irritation and micro-tearing of the plantar fascia, which is a thick band of tissue on the bottom of the foot, that supports the arch. When the tissue becomes strained, microtears occur. These tiny tears can lead to heel pain, stiffness and difficulty walking or standing for long periods of time. It is often caused by increased activity, wearing unsupportive footwear and/or changes in biomechanics of the lower extremities. It can also be caused by things like weight gain, pregnancy and tight calf muscles. Adding a few simple exercises into your daily routine can help support and improve foot mobility and combat plantar fasciitis:

Calf Stretch

Tight calf muscles increases stress on the foot because the calf muscles join together to create the Achilles tendon, which attaches to and tugs on the heel bone. Stretching the calves can help to alleviate the tightness of the plantar fascia. Stand facing a wall, put one foot against the wall with toes on the wall and heel on the ground, step the other leg back into a lunge position and feel the stretch of the calf muscle. You could also, stand on a step with your heels off the step, dip the heels down to feel a deep stretch of the calf muscles – careful to hold on to the railing and not tip backwards! Hold each stretch for at least 30 seconds, and repeat several times on each side.

Plantar Fascia Stretch

In a seated position cross your foot over your opposite knee and gently pull the toes back towards your shin. You can add in ankle rotations as well. Hold the stretch for 30 seconds and repeat several times on each side. You can also add in a massage of the foot muscles, as this will get blood flowing to the feet!

Towel Scrunches

In a seated position, place a towel or blanket on the floor just under your toes. Scrunch your toes, lifting the towel/blanket off the ground or dragging it towards you. This helps to strengthen the small muscles in the arch.

Rolling Massage

Using a frozen water bottle or massage ball, roll your arch over it several times with mild pressure. If you are using a frozen water bottle this can also help to alleviate mild swelling in the area.

Other everyday tips to help combat the dreaded plantar fasciitis are:

• Supportive Footwear: Shoes that have proper arch support and cushioning help to distribute pressure more evenly across the foot. Avoid worn-out or extremely flat shoes.
• Orthotics: Orthotics, especially custom ones are designed to help distribute the weight on the foot evenly, while also helping with poor biomechanics and alignment of the foot.
• Pace Your Activity: If you recently increased your activities, such as running or walking, try and scale back slightly and build up gradually. Your body will benefit from a steady progression rather than a sudden leap in activity.
• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Maintaining a healthy weight can help to reduce heel and arch pain. With extra weight comes extra stress on the feet, even a small reduction in weight can make a huge impact.

Foot pain does not have to define your day. By taking proactive steps and making manageable changes, will support your foot health and keep you moving in the right direction, so you can keep doing more of what you love. If you need some advice on how to reduce pain caused by plantar fasciitis speak to a BioPed clinician today. They can help guide you on your journey to feeling your best.

The post Plantar Fasciitis Exercises and Other Foot Care Tips to Keep Your Feet Moving appeared first on Relieve Foot Pain & Leg Pain.

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.

The post Is Plantar Fasciitis Treatable with Custom Orthotics? appeared first on Relieve Foot Pain & Leg Pain.

Why Foot Problems Happen

Foot issues can stem from many sources: genetics, conditions like diabetes or arthritis, overuse, injuries, or poorly fitted footwear. Many people try to “push through” the pain, but untreated foot problems can lead to long-term discomfort and reduced mobility.

How Canadian Certified Pedorthists Help

Canadian Certified Pedorthists (C. Ped (C)s) specialize in how the feet and lower extremity function. With advanced training in biomechanics, they are skilled in:

• Assessing gait and movement patterns
• Creating custom foot orthotics
• Recommending and modifying footwear
• Providing compression and bracing solutions
• They work with healthcare professionals to deliver personalized, effective care

The BioPed Footcare Difference

At BioPed Footcare, our Pedorthists aim to reduce pain, protect joints, ease muscles and restore natural movement. Each assessment includes a full symptom review, gait analysis, and biomechanical exam to identify the root cause of current issues as well as possible future issues, and create a treatment plan to address pain, prevent injury and optimize mobility.

When to Seek Help

A Pedorthist can help if you experience:

• Ongoing foot, leg or knee pain
• Discomfort from bunions, flat feet, or arthritis
• Trouble finding comfortable shoes
• Limitations in walking or daily mobility

Take the First Step Toward Comfort

With 85+ BioPed Footcare clinics across Canada, expert support is always nearby. Find a BioPed clinic near you and give your feet the care they truly deserve.

The post Your Body’s Foundation: Why Foot Health Matters More Than You Think appeared first on Relieve Foot Pain & Leg Pain.

How does it occur?

Neuropathy in the feet is caused by damage to the nerves. This can be from many different causes – infections, alcoholism, predisposing genetic factors, but the most common cause is diabetes. The rise of uncontrolled sugars in the blood can have harmful effects on nerves as it circulates throughout the body. Neuropathy can occur anywhere, but neuropathy in the feet is most common due to being supplied by the longest nerves in the body and yet having some of the smallest most susceptible nerves within the toes.

What can I do?

When neuropathy strikes, it does not destroy sensation immediately. In fact, you may feel strange sensations instead, like tingling, burning, or numbness, similar to other nerve conditions or what you would find with electricity. It is important to catch neuropathy as early as possible, as mild damage can be repaired by your body. It will be paramount to address the root cause such as controlling the blood sugars to prevent circulatory damage, remove causative agents like infectious pathogens and decrease alcohol consumption.

If neuropathy in the feet has taken root and is at the point of complete loss in sensation, then we need to be cautious. A lack of foot pain might seem blissful – but it is actually a gateway to a plethora of problems. The most common issue people face is that when we cannot feel pain, we don’t know when to give our feet a break. Overuse and trauma to the skin, including things like hot sand or broken glass, lead to open wounds, which account for the majority of all diabetic-related amputations. This caution can be taken by daily foot inspections, medications to ease any tingling or burning sensations, and even checking the shower/bath water with your hand before accidentally burning the feet.

When to see a BioPed Clinician

Ideally as soon as possible, if you are experiencing burning, tingling, numbness, pain or the feeling of bugs crawling on your feet. And if you have diabetes, you should visit a footcare clinician as soon as you are diagnosed to determine your risk of developing complications.

Book an appointment at your nearest BioPed location today!

The post Is Foot Neuropathy Dangerous? Recognizing Symptoms and Exploring Treatment Options appeared first on Relieve Foot Pain & Leg Pain.

Plantar Fasciitis is a common condition causing pain in the heel and bottom of the foot. It occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue running from your heel to your toes, becomes inflamed or irritated. This condition can be frustrating and painful, making it difficult to walk or stand for long periods. But the good news is, you don’t have to live with it forever. With the right treatment and preventative measures, you can manage and even overcome plantar fasciitis.

Acute vs. Long-Term Heel Pain

Plantar fasciitis can present in two main ways:

• Acute Injury: Sometimes, plantar fasciitis can develop suddenly due to an intense activity or a new exercise routine. This is more common in athletes or individuals who have suddenly increased their physical activity.
• Long-Term Overuse Injury: More commonly, plantar fasciitis develops gradually due to overuse. This is often seen in individuals who spend long hours on their feet or wear unsupportive shoes, leading to chronic heel pain.

Custom Orthotics as a Primary Treatment

One of the primary treatments for plantar fasciitis is the use of custom orthotics. These are specially designed shoe inserts tailored to your feet’s specific needs. Here’s how they help:

• How They Work: Custom orthotics provide support to the arch of your foot, redistributing pressure more evenly and reducing the strain on the plantar fascia.
• Usage: They are usually worn during the day, especially when you’re on your feet for extended periods.
• Specific Benefits: By supporting the arch, custom orthotics help alleviate heel pain, reduce inflammation, and prevent further damage to the plantar fascia.

Long-Term Use of Custom Orthotics

For some people, custom orthotics become a long-term solution, especially if they have:

• Foot or Leg Concerns: Conditions like flat feet or high arches can cause ongoing issues that custom orthotics help manage.
• Peripheral Neuropathy or Diabetes: These conditions can affect foot health, making orthotics necessary for comfort and support.

Custom orthotics can address mechanical concerns, deformities, conditions and make feet feel more comfortable and supported.

Preventative Steps for Plantar Fasciitis and Heel Pain

Consider the following preventative steps:

• Wear Supportive Footwear: Choose shoes with good arch support and cushioning.
• Regular Stretching and Strengthening: Focus on your legs and feet, especially stretching the calf muscles and the plantar fascia.
• Indoor Footwear: Don’t walk barefoot at home, at least not all the time. Wear supportive indoor shoes or slippers.
• Regular Physical Activity: Engage in activities that strengthen your feet and legs without overstraining them.

Why See a Canadian Certified Pedorthist?

If you’re struggling with plantar fasciitis, consulting a Canadian Certified Pedorthist is a smart step. These professionals specialize in assessing and managing foot and lower limb conditions, including the design of custom orthotics. They can help ensure you get the right fit and support to alleviate your pain and improve your quality of life.

The post Will Plantar Fasciitis Ever Go Away? appeared first on Relieve Foot Pain & Leg Pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is often the result of repetitive strain on the plantar fascia, the band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, connecting the heel bone to the toes. Common risk factors include:

• Overuse/ Repetitive Activities: Individuals who spend long hours on their feet are at higher risk. Activities involving prolonged standing, running or intense movement stress the plantar fascia. Winter sports, such as skiing and skating, can also contribute to heel pain due to the repetitive motion and pressure these activities place on the feet.
• Improper Footwear: Shoes with poor support or cushioning can exacerbate heel stress, especially the plantar fascia. Sports footwear such as ski boots or skates tend not to provide optimal arch support and can be narrow in width, leading to heel pain.
• Obesity: Carrying extra weight increases stress on the feet, particularly the heel and arch.
• Biomechanical Issues: Flat feet, abnormal walking patterns, or high arches can place uneven pressure on the plantar fascia.

Recognizing the Symptoms

The hallmark symptom of plantar fasciitis is sharp heel pain, particularly in the morning or after a period of rest. The pain typically improves with movement but can worsen after prolonged standing or activity. Some people may also experience tenderness along the arch of the foot.

Treatment Options for Plantar Fasciitis

Managing plantar fasciitis involves reducing the inflammation, alleviating the pain, and addressing the root causes. Here are some of the most effective treatment strategies:

1. Rest and Modification to Activity Level: Limiting activities that aggravate the condition, such as running or standing for long periods, gives the plantar fascia time to heel.
2. Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: Gentle stretching exercises targeting the calf muscles and plantar fascia can improve flexibility and reduce tension. Strengthening the foot and leg muscles can also improve stability and prevent recurrence.
3. Supportive Footwear and Orthotics: Proper footwear plays a vital role in managing plantar fasciitis. Supportive shoes with good arch support and cushioning help reduce strain on the plantar fascia. Custom orthotics or even over-the-counter (OTC) orthotics can provide additional support, especially for individuals with high arches or flat feet. Orthotics help to control abnormal gait and can help reduce pressure put on the plantar fascia.
4. Pain Management: Icing and massaging the foot with a frozen water bottle for 15-20 minutes several times a day can reduce the inflammation.

For more severe cases, options include physical therapy, corticosteroid injections, shockwave therapy, or in rare cases surgery.

How Orthotics Can Help in Winter Sports Footwear

Orthotics play a crucial role in preventing and managing plantar fasciitis, especially for winter sports enthusiasts. Activities like skiing, snowboarding, or ice-skating demand unique footwear, often they are rigid and snug. Here’s how orthotics can enhance comfort and foot health:

1. Customized Support: Orthotics are designed to fit the contours of your feet. They provide the much-needed arch support and cushioning in stiff boots or skates.
2. Shock Absorption: Winter sports often involve high-impact movements. Orthotics reduce the strain on your heels and plantar fascia by absorbing shock during activity.
3. Stabilization: Custom orthotics can improve foot alignment within footwear, preventing abnormal pressure and enhancing overall stability
4. Adaptability: Orthotics can be tailored to fit into various winter sports footwear, ensuring you stay active without compromising foot health.

Preventing Plantar Fasciitis

Whether you are hitting the slopes or skating on ice, prevention is key to avoiding heel pain caused by plantar fasciitis. To keep your feet healthy:

• Wear well-fitted, supportive shoes, especially during high-impact activities.
• Incorporate regular stretching and strengthening exercises into your routine.
• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on your feet.
• Listen to your body and take breaks and rest when you feel discomfort to prevent overuse injuries.

Plantar fasciitis doesn’t have to keep you from enjoying your favourite winter activities. With proper care, supportive footwear, and custom orthotics, you can protect your feet, reduce heel pain, and continue doing what you love- even in the colder months! Your foot health is essential to your overall well-being- don’t ignore the signs of plantar fasciitis.

The post is Plantar Fasciitis affecting your game? appeared first on Relieve Foot Pain & Leg Pain.

Do you suffer from nagging foot pain after standing for long periods of time at work? Is it hard to walk in the morning? If so, you might be suffering from plantar fasciitis, a condition caused by micro tears and inflammation of the soft tissue running along the arch and heel of your foot. Whether you are in retail, healthcare, construction or teaching, dealing with this pain can make it hard to stay active and enjoy life.

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is often described as a sharp, stabbing pain in the heel or arch, especially first thing in the morning or after sitting for a while. The pain occurs when the plantar fascia (soft tissue of the foot) becomes inflamed and overstressed.

 Aggravating factors include:

• Standing for long periods of time: It is an overuse injury and standing without the proper support can make the condition worse.
• High arches: Clients that have heigh arches put a lot of pressure on the heels and balls of the feet.
• Low arches: Clients that have low arches tend to over stretch the fascia causing pain.
• Weight: Being overweight or suddenly gaining weight can cause increased stress to the fascia.
• Tight calf muscles/ Achilles tendon: The Achilles attaches to the heel and when the calf is tight it can pull on the fascia of the foot causing inflammation.
• Improper shoes: Wearing shoes that do not support the foot can increase the stress on the plantar fascia

Simple ways to manage Plantar Fasciitis

1. Custom orthotics: Designed to offload the heel and evenly distribute the weight on the foot. A BioPed Clinician can create custom orthotics designed to fit your feet perfectly, giving you the support and comfort you need to ease the strain on your plantar fascia.
2. Over-the-counter (OTC) insoles: OTC insoles can provide support for your arches and help relieve the plantar fascia. These devices are great as a second pair of “orthotics” for shoes you don’t wear as often.
3. Supportive shoes: Shoes play a huge role in preventing and managing foot pain, especially plantar fasciitis. Look for shoes that have cushioning and a good arch. Avoid shoes that are flat, lack structure and are unsupportive (for example, ballet flats or flip flops can hinder healing).
4. Stretching: Stretching your calves, Achilles tendon, and the bottom of your foot can help relieve tension in the plantar fascia. Set reminders to stretch throughout the day. Quick calf stretches against a wall or gently rolling a massage ball or frozen water bottle under your foot can make a big difference.
5. Resting: When possible, vary your position throughout the day, taking small breaks to get off your feet and rest. Rest will help to decrease inflammation and help promote healing.
6. Night splints: These are braces that keep the foot and calf in a stretched position at night. They help to prevent the calf and foot from tightening while sleeping, making that first step in the morning less painful.

Seeing a Canadian Certified Pedorthist

• A Pedorthist specializes in the biomechanics of feet and lower limbs, and they can design custom orthotics to reduce stress on your knee.
• They can also recommend the best footwear and knee braces for your specific needs.

While simple stretches and footwear changes can help, if you are still having chronic pain, you may require additional support. BioPed Clinicians specialize in assessing foot health and can provide tailored solutions to help reduce strain on your feet and keep you doing more in life.

The post Feet or legs hurt from standing? appeared first on Relieve Foot Pain & Leg Pain.

Common Conditions Linked to Heel Pain

Heel pain can result from several different conditions. Here are a few of the most frequent causes:

• Plantar Fasciitis: The most common cause of heel pain, affecting millions of people worldwide.
• Achilles Tendonitis: Inflammation of the tendon connecting the calf muscles to the back of the heel bone.
• Heel Spurs: A bony growth that forms on the heel bone, often linked to long-term plantar fasciitis.
• Heel Pain Syndrome: Irritation of the calcaneal fat pad that cushions the bottom of the heel bone with each step.

Of these, plantar fasciitis is the most prevalent and one of the most painful.

Plantar Fasciitis: The Leading Cause of Heel Pain

Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia ligament, a thick band of tissue connecting your heel to your toes, becomes inflamed. This inflammation often results from repetitive stress on the foot, such as weight gain, running, long periods of standing, or wearing unsupportive shoes.

Common symptoms of plantar fasciitis include:

• Sharp, stabbing pain in the heel, especially with the first steps in the morning.
• Pain after prolonged periods of sitting or standing.
• Discomfort that worsens after physical activity rather than during it.

Medical Solutions for Managing Heel Pain

When it comes to managing heel pain, especially from plantar fasciitis, two key medical products can provide effective relief:

1. Custom Foot Orthotics

Custom orthotics are specially designed shoe inserts tailored to the shape of your feet. They provide extra support, align the foot properly, and distribute pressure evenly across the heel and arch. Benefits of custom orthotics include:

• Reduced stress on the plantar fascia.
• Improved foot alignment, reducing heel strain.
• Enhanced comfort, allowing for more natural movement during walking or running.

2. Compression Foot Sleeves/Socks

Compression therapy is an effective way to manage inflammation and improve circulation. The OS1st Plantar Fasciitis Recovery Kit provides excellent support for individuals suffering from heel pain. It includes:

• Compression foot sleeves that help reduce swelling and support the arch and heel.
• An additional sleeve for use during sleep to maintain proper foot position and aid recovery overnight.
• Compression socks that offer targeted relief to the plantar fascia, improving comfort during the day.

Compression products like these work by:

• Enhancing blood flow to reduce swelling.
• Supporting the foot’s natural shape and reducing strain on affected areas.
• Providing immediate relief from inflammation-related discomfort.

Preventative Steps for Heel Pain and Plantar Fasciitis

While treatment is important, prevention is equally vital to avoid recurring heel pain. Here are some practical tips:

• Wear Supportive Footwear: Invest in shoes with good arch support and cushioning, particularly if you spend a lot of time on your feet.
• Stretch Regularly: Stretch your calves, Achilles tendon, and the bottom of your feet daily to maintain flexibility and reduce strain on the plantar fascia.
• Consider Footwear for Indoors: Walking barefoot or in unsupportive slippers on hard floors can increase heel pain. Opt for supportive indoor footwear.
• Stay Active: Engage in low-impact exercises, such as swimming or cycling, which strengthen the muscles in your feet and legs without overstressing them.

Why See a Canadian Certified Pedorthist?

A Canadian Certified Pedorthist specializes in assessing foot mechanics and creating custom solutions for foot pain, including heel pain. They can:

• Evaluate your gait and foot structure.
• Recommend custom orthotics or other supportive devices.
• Offer tailored advice on footwear and stretches specific to your needs.

If you’re struggling with heel pain, seeing a Pedorthist is a critical step toward long-term relief. With their expertise, you can regain comfort and prevent future foot issues.

Heel pain can significantly impact your day-to-day life, but with the right approach—like custom orthotics, compression foot sleeves, and preventative care—you can manage and prevent the pain. Always seek advice from a certified professional for personalized treatment options tailored to your needs.

The post Heel Pain & Inflammation appeared first on Relieve Foot Pain & Leg Pain.

Problems that can creep up with extended periods of standing and walking can range from mild discomfort, fatigue and swelling of the feet and legs, to more serious complications such as arthritis, tendonitis or varicose veins.

People who spend significant time on their feet all day are at greater risk of pain and discomfort affecting their lower back, hips, thighs, knees, shins/ calves, and feet.  Over time, symptoms can become worse, and more serious conditions can occur. Worsening of existing heart conditions, chronic venous insufficiency, and varicose veins, have all been associated with prolonged standing. Lower back pain is also a more common issue related to prolonged standing and is more likely to afflict those who must stand at their jobs versus those who can sit or have a combination of sitting and standing. Arthritis of the hip and knees are common in the older population, but those that are employed in heavy manual labour jobs frequently experience joint pain much sooner in life. The effects of standing for long periods of time can show up quickly and often accelerate health problems such as:

• Low back pain
• Plantar fasciitis
• Varicose veins
• High blood pressure
• Knee or hip arthritis
• Bunions
• Muscle soreness and fatigue
• Foot pain
• Knee pain
• Swollen and painful feet and legs
• Tendonitis, especially the Achilles
• Joint damage

When muscles are stagnant for long periods of time, with no rest, breaks or movements, the joints become stiff and can get stuck. When this occurs regularly, the muscles, especially in the legs and back, become fatigued and the ligaments and tendons become damaged, causing soft tissue damage. Standing in one place also reduces blood flow because the veins rely on the muscle pump to return blood back to the heart. When standing in one place for many hours, the blood will pool in the feet and legs. The constant pressure on the veins can weaken them, which in turn leads to achy legs, or varicose veins.

So, what steps can you take to help alleviate your suffering?

• Change your position, and move your body: If allowed, walk around, stretch or shift your body weight. Sit down and elevate your feet during your break.
• Wear comfortable supportive shoes: There are many different styles, just make sure you are wearing the proper fit for your foot. A BioPed clinician can help determine what shoe would be best for you.
• Custom made orthotics: Feet are the foundation of your body, when supported and aligned properly with an orthotic many issues such as plantar fasciitis, knee, hip or back pain can be alleviated.
• Wearing compression socks: Compression socks are designed to apply gentle pressure to your legs. This pressure helps improve blood flow, reduce swelling, and alleviate discomfort. Unlike regular socks, compression socks are made from specialized materials that provide graduated compression – meaning the pressure is strongest at the ankle and gradually decreases as it moves up the leg. This design helps blood circulate back up towards the heart, preventing it from pooling in the lower extremities.

Helpful tips for getting the most out of your compression socks:

Fit is crucial: Borrowing your friend or family member’s compression socks will not benefit you. Medical grade compression requires you to be measured by a certified fitter. At BioPed, a clinician will measure you and fit you with the correct size to maximize the effectiveness of the compression garment.

Consistency: To reap the full benefit, make compression garments part of your daily routine, especially on days you know you will be doing a lot of standing or walking.

Choose Quality: There are many online places offering cost effective compression, however by choosing quality you are ensuring a consistent, and reliable product that will serve you time and time again. And also serve the purpose… as not all compression is properly made.

Combine with other supportive products: Stretching, exercise, elevating your feet and staying hydrated can further reduce pooling of blood and enhance blood circulation.

Compression is highly beneficial and can help to significantly improve muscle fatigue at the end of a long shift. Remember it is important to listen to your body and seek professional advice, so if you are unsure where to start or need personalized advice, our BioPed clinicians are here to help. Let us work together to help you do more in life, with less pain and discomfort.

The post Do you work on your feet all day? appeared first on Relieve Foot Pain & Leg Pain.