The Ultimate Plantar Care: Orthotics

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common forms of foot pain and refers to pain on the bottom of your foot, particularly around the heel and arch. In many instances, plantar fasciitis symptoms are mild, but for some the pain can become debilitating and affect quality of life. There are a few different options when it comes to the treatment of plantar fasciitis, and many of these include working to ease the symptoms. One of the best heel pain relief methods is the use of Orthotics. Therefore, we have put together everything you need to know about how Orthotics can help the pain and discomfort by offering the ultimate form of plantar care.

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is generally described as a sharp pain in the heel area of the foot and usually is the most painful when you take your first steps in the morning. More than 1 million people a year experience plantar fasciitis, both from the athletic and the sedentary populations. Risk factors can include those who are overweight, have excessive foot pronation, and stand for long periods of time [1]. For this reason, plantar fasciitis is commonly experienced by teachers and those who work stood on their feet for long periods of time. 

Plantar fasciitis refers to the structural breakdown of the plantar fascia which is a thick band of tissue on the bottom of your foot. This is the tissue that connects the heel bones to the toes. There are often small tears in the tissue, and this causes cycles of pain and inflammation. Repeated micro-trauma to the plantar fascia can cause it to become inflamed and damaged, causing tender heel pain which can severely limit your mobility and ability to stay on your feet.

What are Orthotics?

Orthotics are insoles that you can insert into your shoes to help protect your feet and as a form of treatment for plantar fasciitis. There are different types of Orthotics available to help target specific foot areas and conditions, so that you get the support exactly where you need it. For example, we have Orthotics available that feature a cupped heel to cushion the foot and offer the best heel pain relief. We also offer Orthotics that you can customise to reduce impact, absorb shock, and suit your own individual needs.

Can Orthotics help Plantar Fasciitis?

There have been several studies that have investigated the non-surgical forms of treatment available for plantar fasciitis, including the use of Orthotics. For example, research carried out by Lewis and colleagues found that by using Orthotics for around 1 to 3 months can improve pain levels and overall functionality in the feet for those with plantar fasciitis [2].

Another research study carried out by Whittaker and team compared how effectively Orthotics and steroid injections eased the symptoms of plantar fasciitis. While the comparison identified that steroid injections did offer temporary relief, the use of Orthotics offered a more sustainable and long-term benefit [3].

The pain you can experience because of plantar fasciitis can make it difficult to even complete the simplest of tasks. But by providing your feet with the support and protection they need; you can ease the symptoms you are experiencing and find comfort in our Orthotics.

References

1. Goff, J.D., & Crawford, R. Diagnosis and treatment of plantar fasciitis. American family physician, 84 6, 676-82. 2011
2. Lewis RD, Wright P, McCarthy LH. Orthotics Compared to Conventional Therapy and Other Non-Surgical Treatments for Plantar Fasciitis. J Okla State Med Assoc. 2015
3. Whittaker GA, Landorf KB, Munteanu SE, Menz HB. Predictors of response to foot orthoses and corticosteroid injection for plantar heel pain. J Foot Ankle Res. 2020 Sep 29;13(1):60.