One of the most common types of foot pain is heel pain. It can occur in anyone, young or old, male or female as well as athletes and very active people. Our Podiatrists use custom foot orthoses, commonly referred to as orthotics, to help relieve heel pain and related symptoms.
What are custom orthotics?
Custom orthotics are special shoe inserts we specifically design to provide optimal support for your individual foot. We prescribe orthotics on a case-by-case basis. Meaning we create an orthotic to correct the specific problems that are causing your painful symptoms.
Common Causes of Heel Pain
Many problems can cause or contribute to heel pain; as there is pressure and increased force to specific connective tissues and muscles of the foot and lower leg.
Plantar fasciitis
Probably the most common cause of heel pain among patients is plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a strong band of connective tissue that connects the bottom of your heel to your forefoot. Thus stabilising the arch. Plantar fasciitis occurs when this band becomes irritated and inflamed. Tiny tears form throughout the tissue as a result of prolonged force through the structure supporting your arch.
Plantar fasciitis pain is most common when getting out of bed in the morning or standing after sitting for a long period of time. It will then ease off after taking a few steps as the inflammation moves from the site of irritation and spreads over the rest of the foot. It is important to note that plantar fasciitis is not limited to first stance and can occur at any time whilst weight bearing.
Custom orthotics help with heel pain
As they are made on an individual basis, custom orthotics can be particularly successful in reducing heel pain. Symptoms like inflammation and irritation are relieved by reducing pressure points on and around your heel. At the same time, providing ample support for the rest of the foot and reducing stain on the connective tissue. That means the more you wear your orthotics, the more effective they’ll be in relieving your symptoms.