Plantar Fasciitis Treatment : Effective Outpatient Procedures that Really Work - 10:36, 2010-Mar-7 |
| A large number of patients who experience heel pain assume that it's nothing to worry about and will go away with rest and less activity. Unfortunately, in some cases the heel pain is a red flag for something that the doctor may need to treat. Foot malformations such as over-pronation or flat feet can lead to more acute conditions such as plantar fasciitis. This often disabling pain in the heel area of the foot can be treated in a surgical center as an outpatient. Overpronation and Flat Feet Can Lead to Serious Anatomical Issues As found by the APMA (American Podiatric Medical Association), plantar fasciitis can be caused by abnormal gait or foot anatomy. This can include over-pronation and low arches, for example. When the lower leg biomechanics are out of sync with the other parts of the body, excessive stress and pressure are put on foot structures that are not intended to take those strains. One manifestation of this, running on a hard surface or even being heavier than recommended can all be contributing causes for heel pain. Plantar Fasciitis Treatment Sometimes Requires Surgery A surgery known as Instep Plantar Fasciotomy is one treatment for plantar fasciitis that is done under ankle block anesthesia (patient is awake but the foot is numbed). The plantar fascia is a ligament of tissue to blame for the excruciating discomfort caused by this condition. The heel is incised by the physician just over the heel bone. The fluid-filled area and damaged tissue is extracted from the inflamed heel tissues. Once the incision is sutured, a walking shoe is recommended to be used for about 4-6 weeks, depending upon the healing time for the patient. Overpronation and Flat Feet Also Result in a Non-Surgical Flat Feet A type of cutting edge technology being used today to heal foot conditions is with waves of low level sound. Known as extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT), this solution aims to use low-dose sound waves to destruct the affected tissuesin the heel. It sounds counterproductive, but it isn't. The partial destruction of these tissues in low amounts actually starts the body's healing response and heals the foot condition. In a study done in the early part of this decade, it took nearly 1000 study participants about two months to heal completely with about 85% success. Plantar Fasciitis Treatment with Faster Recovery Times The final medical procedure that is becoming more popular simply because it requires less recovery time is an endoscopic plantar fasciotomy. In this medical treatment, the foot is anesthetized while the patient is alert. Since some doctors may prefer to have the patient unconscious, that is also a valid way to perform the operation with reduced stress to the patient. Quarter-inch incisions are made in the sides of the heel to access the affected tissues. A camera is used to help the physician to identify the plantar fascia ligament. After it has been found, the surgeon fixes the problems inside and closes the wound. Overpronation and Flat Feet Don't Have to Hurt as Much Although surgical intervention is only necessary in under 10% of plantar fasciitis cases, it's recommended to be aware of the procedures that surgeons are using today. Following up after surgery with physical therapy is one of the best things patients can do after undergoing any of these procedures. Massages, exercises, and whirlpool therapy are just some of the many tools in the physical therapist's toolbox that can assist. For patients with walking gait abnormalities and biomechanics problems such as over-pronation or low arches, orthtotic insoles are advised to halt recurrence of heel pain |
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What You Need to Know About Treating Morton's Neuroma and Alternative Foot Care - 04:22, 2010-Jan-12 |
| During those periods when aching feet stops you dead in your tracks, there seems to be nothing that can help, other than to sit down. Seemingly endless visits to the medical clinic, loss of work, immobility, and even putting on pounds can all be side effects of persistent pain in your feet. However, there are effective solutions available. Acupuncture, special massage therapies, high heel orthotics, and specialized foot compounds can aid your feet be renewed and free of discomfort. Not only will your feet have fewer pains such as metatarsalgia, but the inflammation will subside so that sensitive areas can heal and be calmed. Muscles of the feet are another major problem area for many people.. All three of these healing, all natural fixes will have you free from foot agony immediately. Whether You Have Metatarsalgia or Need Mortons Neuroma, Eastern Acupuncture Works Wonders on the Feet Acupuncture is the practice of putting in thin needles into "chi", which are regions in the body to rejuvenate the energy and blood flow that has been interrupted by injury. The feet can be affected in this way with the wrong shoes, too much impact on the feet and certain intense physical activities which can cause painful conditions such as metatarsalgia and Morton's Neuroma. Treatment for Morton's Neuroma can start with various acupuncture methods and massages to relieve aggravated foot tissues and help to start the healing process. Certified acupuncture professionals practice a much appreciated art in that they are generally able to effectively remove chronic foot pain in their patients. In 90's study reported in the journal "Acupuncture in Medicine", they have found that electrical stimulation of the needles augmented blood flow to the problem areas and facilitated recovery. Trying Massage Therapy Can Speed Healing Time for Mortons Neuroma Blood flow is necessary when trying to help problems of our feet. Massage therapies can help with metatarsalgia and aid in Mortons Neuroma. These therapies are becoming very popular among sports therapists, and massage therapists, reflexologists, and physical therapists. By massaging the bottoms of the feet with a gentle sweeping touch, blood flow is brought to the feet instantly. Reported by the American Massage Therapy Association, two great therapies involve specifically using the thumbs. Several therapies seem to work best, including the sliding rub and walking methods. With the first technique, the thumbs are placed on the top of the feet and then rub in a back and forth motion up and down. The second technique involves the thumbs being held on the bottom of the feet and are walked towards the toes while pressing with steady pressure. Metatarsalgia or Mortons Neuroma Doesn't Have to Hurt as Much There's no one smarter than Mother Nature when it comes to foot cures. Some of the most effective foot products have natural oils in the ingredients to relieve, cool down, and increase blood flow. One such essential oil is menthol. Taken from the leaves of the mint plant, once applied to the skin, menthol provides a cooling relief. Eucalyptus and camphor are also sometimes found in foot creams and oils. These substances have similar advantages to menthol because they provide a cooling sensation and help to increase blood flow. Aloe also helps fight dry skin and cleanses feet while supplying lubrication during massage therapy. For those who would benefit from a warm water foot soak, Epsom salts help draw toxins out of the feet while lessening inflammation. One of the key ways to lessen foot pain caused by wearing shoes with high heels are insoles for high heels. These devices provide support for our foot arches and metatarsal areas, thus diminishing the stress on our metatarsals. Whether you have metatarsalgia, are already using high heel orthotics, or need Morton's Neuroma; get relief today by getting acupuncture treatment, seeing a massage therapist, and using products with essential oils. Ease the pain and get back on your feet today by trying out these three amazing techniques. |
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Top 3 Foot Conditions, Including Shin Splints, and How to Treat Them - 09:33, 2009-Dec-16 |
| Whenever your feet feel fatigued, painful, and overused, the soreness frequently can turn unbearable. Jogging, sports activities and the like can place tremendous strain on our feet, and cause trouble with our lower body. Painful blisters, heelspurs, and shin splint pain can cause simple movements like walking to be painful. However, there are a few options that can help ease the pain and start the healing process when done regularly. Here are three tips to make feet recover so you can get back to your life. The First Weeks of Training Can Cause Blisters Snugly-fitted shoes can cause blisters on the skin of the feet. They are prone to develop on any area of the feet, but the bony nub on the heel is the most affected site. Given that the skin is our barrier to the outside, and accountable for protecting us from bacteria and viruses, a blister shouldn't be purposely popped. Many physicians recommend the use of moleskin as a great option for protecting a blister to avoiding it from popping. If a blister has already popped, it is suggested to clean the area and apply Neosporin. Then, keep the affected region wrapped with a bandage. Start Healing Now: Overcoming Shin Pain Some athletes and runners can experience a more serious condition involving shin splints. This excruciating injury is caused by abuse of the lower leg by running, repeated jumping, or brisk walking. The exact origin of the injury is not well understood, but they seem to be caused by injury to a tendon in the leg known as the posterior peroneal tendon. Given that this condition also seems to affect people who experience over-pronation of their feet (this is the tendency of the foot to roll inward), special support devices in the shoes, known as sports orthotics are extremely helpful. Treatment for shin splints can consist of icing the area, staying off of it until it is healed, and encouraging no-impact activities such as using a stationary bicycle or swimming. To prevent the injury from recurring, wear sports insoles when you participatein impact activities. How to Treat Pain In The Heel Plantar fasciitis is one of the most painful heel and foot issues to suffer from. Pain in the heel arises when the plantar fascia is stretched excessively and becomes swollen, ripped, and bothered. A proper method to treat these conditions from the start is with proper foot arch support and padding, which can be provided by using sports orthotics. Gentle massage of the affected area as well as using ice and getting physical therapy are also helpful. When the legs and feet experience pain, your body is sending you a vital warning: it needs help. Often times, the mere act of resting from strenuous workouts for a short period and using sports orthotics is enough. However, when more serious conditions develop such as shin splints, a medical professional should enter the picture in order to properly diagnose the problem and provide appropriate treatment. |
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Alternative Foot Treatments: Stop the Pain from Excess Pronation and Poor Arch Support Today - 07:13, 2009-Dec-1 |
| Chronic foot pain is in some cases an indication need for a surgical procedure. Though it may be sometimes a necessary path, there are techniques that can be used to evade a surgical procedure if undertaken soon enough. Early intervention is key when it comes to treating painful problems of the lower legs like plantar fasciitis, hammertoes, and shin splints. Though some of these methods may seem unusual, or even unsophisticated, they are quite effective when dealing with the beginning stages of conditions affecting the foot and lower leg. Massage Can Help Treat Painful Feet A very effective treatment option is massage . When tight shoes are worn, feet can suffer from skin and bone problems like calluses and blisters. The best solution is to stop using shoes that hurt after the first day of wear. If you must keep wearing them, massaging the feet will help bring circulation to the muscles of the foot and will help them recover. Tenderness and aggravation can be caused by nerve compression, lack of blood supply, and swelling. Massaging the affected area with gentle, rhythmic massage is the best way to relieve sore feet. Soaking in a solution of lukewarm Epsom salts is also the perfect technique to relieve tightened muscles and swelling. Using a foot cream that contains mint or menthol is a good way to provide the foot with a cool boost. The Mechanics of Pronation Foot pronation is the tendency of the foot to rotate either outward or inward during regular walking movements. When the severity of inward or outward roll is severe, it can cause arch support problems, and also shin splints and heel pain. Acupuncture is a valid treatment for foot issues and lower leg injuries. The idea behind the needle and the special points they stimulate is to focus electric and blood flow to the affected regions. As a result, the area is able to cure by itself, and the pain is alleviated. Medical research conducted in 1996 showed that electrical stimulation of the acupuncture points in the feet was successful in returning blood flow to the areas that were stimulated. Impact is the Foot's Worst Enemy for Those with Flat Feet The use of orthotic arch supports is a great way to prevent foot conditions in the first place, and also for treating minor foot pain due to lack of arch support. When the arch faiuls to support itself during everyday activities, the arch becomes flat and can no longer provide proper impact support for the lower body. The full power of the impact can cause heel spurs, shin pain, and fascia swelling, just to name a few. By using orthotic insoles, the arch is properly supported, and the whole lower body functions properly with respect to shock absorption. This basic addition to your footwear can make all the difference in how well you perform during activities as well as banish foot pain. For those who suffer from foot pain and conditions of the lower leg, simply walking can be excruciating. Nevertheless, with appropriate preventive care and gentle treatment provided early on, the feet can get better faster and avoid re-injury. |
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Three Successful Ways to Prevent Foot Pain with Insoles For High Heels - 01:34, 2009-Sep-29 |
| Stopping foot pain in advance is the ideal way to prevent expensive surgeries later on. Though many people ignore foot pain for weeks, pretending that the pain isn't serious or wishing it would just disappear are not appropriate solutions to the foot pain situation. There are plenty of ways to help your feet stay strong, healthy, and pain-free with only a few changes to your daily routine. Here are a few reasons why metatarsalgia occurs, how to treat foot problems such as Achilles tendonitis, and how minor changes, like using high heel insoles, can help. Achilles Heel Tendonitis Can Be Eased with This Stretch Achilles tendonitis can really put a sour note in anyone's day. The constricton of this vital tendon can cause cramping in the lower leg. It can also be a major contributor to becoming so short that it eventually tears. The way to help the tendon relax and elongate in order to lessen pain is to apply gentle stretching to the affected part. Sit on the floor with both legs extended in a seated position. Then, slowly lean the upper body forward and the hamstring will begin to stretch out. Now that your leg muscles have increased blood flow, softly coax the feet towards the head to focus on the Achilles tendon. Hold the stretch for about 30-45 seconds, rest for 60 seconds, and repeat 5 times. Massage, Stretch and Insoles For High Heels Can Prevent Painful Foot Conditions In today's world where shoes must look good (not feel good), lack of willingness to give up these types of shoes is regrettable. However, with the use of high heel insoles, metatarsalgia can be relieved with consistent wear. It is advisable to select shoes with low-profile heels and with a wider-profile heel such as a wedge to avoid future ball of foot pain. If feet are sore at day's end, consider adjusting to flat dress shoes for a few days per week to allow the feet some time for increased blood flow which will help feet heal in between wearing higher heels. Be sure to massage and stretch to encourage optimal blood flow to the feet. Why Some Shoes Can Be the Source of Metatarsalgia High heels can cause an array of problems for feet. From the very narrow toe box (the part enclosing the front of the foot) to the angle of incline, this type of footwear can do quite a bit of internal damage to feet. First, when feet and toes are forced into a narrow shoe, as occurs in a high heeled shoe, the mid-foot and toe regions are forced into an extremely narrow space. The muscles, tendons, and ligaments are strained into a tight area for what the foot needs. Over time, nerves become squashed, blood flow is restricted to areas of the foot (particularly in the toes) and problems with the feet occur. Massage Can Aid Feet in More Than One Way Massage is a great method for soothing aching and sore feet. The mild movement of the muscle fibers brings vital blood to the affected areas. Massage also carries healing, oxygen-rich blood into the entire foot. Once muscles are relaxed, aggravated nerves can begin to decrease how often they are firing and pain relief results. If muscles and nerve endings are especially aggravated by a certain pair of shoes or an activity, swelling will be present. In that case, applying ice to the foot for 15 minutes on and 15 minutes off for several hours should help. Elevating the feet higher than the heart during this time is also very useful in allowing the extra fluids to be drained from the foot. |
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Stop Ignoring Your Arch Pain Before It's Too Late - 08:25, 2009-Sep-8 |
| Arch pain and foot over-pronation can cause issues for persons of any age and can even influence an athlete's performance in every way. For those who suffer from this type of pain, there are 3 likely causes that many people may not even know about. Most of the causes are preventable, but many can be genetic. According to the Cleveland Clinic, three of the preventable causes for arch pain include pointed-toe heels, shoes that are too snug, and insufficient foot arch support. These poor decisions can all lead to painful foot disorders like bunions, hammertoes, and plantar fasciitis. The Mayo Clinic has found that 2 of the genetic foot conditions that can lead to foot over-pronation and arch pain include fallen arches or arches that are too high. Below are some common foot procedures that remedy these disorders and how each of them can be resolved. Arch Pain Can Be the First Sign of Bunion Formation Having a bunion removed, or a bunionectomy, is the process whereby the bony bump just above the arch is severed to attain a more natural foot form and width. In the most serious cases where the big toe has situated itself under the other toes, the surgeon cuts a triangle-shaped block out of the straight bone in the big toe to reset it to its original state. One screw is used to hold the bone's new position. After about half a year, the screw can be taken out. Despite the fact that this problem can be brought on by pointed shoes, some bunion occurrences are hereditary. Surgeons confer that pointed-toe shoes that force the toes into a crowded position can bring on bunions. Arch support Can Prevent a Host of Serious Foot Problems Some of the genetic foot disorders include either fallen arches or excessively high arches. Arch malformations such as these affect normal and active people alike. The result of a fallen arch can be arch pain and foot over-pronation because this flattened part of the foot is not functioning as it should. When this structure is not formed properly, overpronation occurs which can lead to a heelspur, a bony protuberance in the heel. Surgery is sometimes required to remove the bonespur and relieve the irritation. The surgeon will use a bone saw to cut away the bony protrusion to relieve the discomfort and ripped muscle tissue it had been causing. The best solution for treating both types of arch problems so heel spurs can be avertws is by giving the foot with proper arch support through arch lifting shoes. What Causes Hammertoes and How to Treat Them Shoes that crowd the foot, including pointed-toe shoes, can result in development of hammertoes. This problem can affect walkers and runners that wear tight shoes during exercise as well. Hammertoes are, unfortunately, difficult to fix without surgery. First, a surgeon can try to straighten the affected toe to try and coax it into a more normal shape. For this procedure to work, patients need to wear shoes with plenty of toe room. Hammertoes can occur again if improper shoes are worn again. If forcing the toe straight with a splint fails, surgery is the only option. The malformed toe must have a part of the bone surgically removed to minimize its bend. The recovery period is vital, as patients who refuse to stay off their feet as suggested will not restore appropriately. The way to prevent this condition is to wear properly-fitting shoes. Regardless of types of activities, age, or inherited traits, foot ailments can occur in a fair number of people. Though foot procedures can surgically alleviate these disorders, most of the time they are preventable through proper shoes and appropriate foot arch support. |
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Conditioning 101: From Walking to Running Long Distances in 6 Weeks - 05:18, 2009-Aug-12 |
| Beginning an exercise routine can be a challenge for anyone, causing most individuals to fail to stick to it. Medical experts at the Mayo Clinic suggest seeing a doctor before commencing any exercise or weight loss routine since every individual is unique and may have medical conditions or challenges that must first be addressed. Most experts also say that some heart and orthopedic medical conditions may pose dangers to persons engaging in anaerobic exercise. This includes any style of weight bearing activities. Assuming that an individual has been cleared by their physician for exercise and weight loss, it is recommended to begin slowly if activity has not been a regular part of their routine. Commencing slowly with a 3 to 3.5 MPH walk for twenty minutes to an hour, contingent on each individual's conditioning level, is a perfect place to start. How to Deal with Challenges in the First Weeks Walking not only provides a heart rate increase, but it also augments blood flow to muscles and provides the start of a higher metabolism. When training for a sports such as a marathon, start with one full hour of quick walking (at a rate of about 4 to 4.5 MPH) for week 1 with 2-minute intervals of running every 5 minutes. This type of moderate activity is also recommended by personal trainers for weight loss as well. If someone has a significant amount of excess pounds to lose and is experiencing pain in their feet, the cause is likely flat feet. See a foot doctor for a professional opinion and treatment before exercising again. Flat foot treatment that is addressed immediately in one's exercise routine can stop more severe foot problems from developing later. The Mechanics of the Cardiovascular System Weeks 2 and 3 should concentrate on raising endurance for longer stretches of exercise. Giving your muscles the crucial oxygen they require during activity results in an increased ability to work out for longer spans of time. Whether walking or running, your heart will adjust the way it pumps as it begins to more efficiently pump blood and oxygen to each muscle. For weeks 4 and 5, interval training should increase by jogging for 5 minutes and walking for 2 minutes. For those just starting out, keep up the activity for 30 minutes; others should continue for up to 60 minutes. If foot pain develops in this time of training, consult with a podiatrist about potential plantar fasciitis, a widespread condition among athetes. These types of conditions causes inflammation and tearing in the foot tissues. Ask the foot doctor about exercises for plantar fasciitis that remedy the problem. The best treatment is continuous therapy including plantar fasciitis exercises . Staying the Course Through Weeks 5 and 6 If you get enthusiastic and decide to go to the next level, in the final time of conditioning for a competition, or for those who are trying to get back into shape is to run for 10 minutes and slow the pace for 1 minute. Beginners can now be considered as intermediate runners and should continue for 30-40 minutes whereas advanced-level athletes should do this for sixty minutes. Whether trying to lose weight or increase stamina, a jogging routine like this will improve cardiovascular health from the very first day. If painful foot conditions continue to be a problem at this point and treatment has already been received, try wearing sports orthotics. These products not only provide support and cushion for ultimate comfort, they can prevent injuries by relieving the effects of over-pronation. |
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How to Prevent Lower Body Sports Injuries With Effective Arch Support - 12:47, 2009-Aug-7 |
| Sports injuries are incidents that most coaches and athletes are accustomed to. These conditions can not only be painful for the athlete, but in many cases can disable the entire team. An injured team member can affect the outcome of games and can have enduring influence on the season as well. Similar to the way a team is influenced by a benched member, a disabled body part affects the entire body. Injuries such as shin splints, ankle injuries, and twisted knees can be caused by bad form, lack of stretching, and excessive use of the areas below the knees. According to medical professionals at the Cleveland Clinic, the majority of athletes develop shin splints sometime during their career. Here's how to help them heal and try to avoid this debilitating issue, as well as preventing other common sports injuries. Shin Splints: How They Originate Shin splints cause symptoms such as pain in the front or side areas of the lower leg. This pain can be sharp and extreme, especially when putting pressure on the affected leg. There can also be swelling in the area that can produce tightness as well as make tissues appear swollen in the muscles. Regardless of what type of activities, from cross country to basketball any athlete can be affected by these conditions. Shin splints treatment should be started right away to begin the healing process immediately. Shin splints treatment recommended by sports injury specialists includes rest, elevation, and icing of the injured area for one to two days. Ongoing physical therapy and strengthening exercises include calf and ankle strengthening moves and stretching of the Achilles tendon and the front leg muscles that surround the shin bone. How Sports Can Cause Knee and Ankle Twist Injuries Another type of injury that is seen in impact sports is twisting of the ankle and knee. This is caused by either a blunt-force injury, which cannot be prevented, or from weak muscles of the lower leg, knee, and ankle. Weakened muscles can be remedied with lifting weights or sports therapy-approved exercises that target the lower leg. Damaged muscles lead to weakened support structures in the entire lower leg so that simple movements or athletic activities can cause twisting injuries. Another helpful measure for preventing these types of injuries are to be sure the feet have proper arch support. This can be accomplished with the use of orthotics made especially for athletic activities. The physicians at the Cleveland Clinic also recommend taping the arch for additional arch support during sports activities. How Tearing Injuries Happen Tearing of the tendons and ligaments are also widespread types of sports-related injuries. This is most commonly found in the connecting structures of the knees and back of the heels. An Achilles injury is generally caused by a lack of flexibility in the heel tendon due to poor stretching exercises. This is a crucial stage in the warm-up procedure that must be taken seriously. Slow stretches without pulsing are suggested for anyone about to exercise. Experts in kinesiology advise a half-minute stretch followed by a short rest and then a repeat stretch. ACL (Anterior cruciate ligaments) are surrounding the knee area and help maintain the knee structure together. Injuries to this region can be prevented by strengthening the knee , calf and quadriceps through leg extension exercises and curls. Orthotic inserts can help avert both of these kinds of injuries by supplying proper arch support, alignment of the feet, and cushion. |
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How Metatarsalgia Can Be Treated With Improved Arch Support - 12:25, 2009-Jul-14 |
| How Shoes Can Cause Ball Of Foot Pain An exquisite pair of stiletto heels are just about the most prized possessions for a woman's wardrobe. Consequently, heels have become a stand-alone way of showing our fashion sense. However, when these kinds of shoes are consistently used, a myriad of conditions to our beloved feet. Among them: ball of foot pain, hammertoes, bunions, and arch support conditions. As expected, the University of Maryland reported that uncomfortable shoes, particularly those with a raised heel, can both aggravate and bring on foot and toe conditions. Men also have to be concerned with the evils of uncomfortable shoes. Particularly stiff work boots or tight dress shoes can cause major foot problems. For both genders, physical activities and sports can be a main factor in foot discomfort. Choose Better Shoes and Avoid Ball Of Foot Pain Shoes with high heels force the weight of the body towards the front of the foot. This causes excessive pressure on the front portion of the foot as opposed to normally distributing the weight of the body over the full foot. A combination of bad cushioning and excessive pressure can cause major foot discomfort. Muscles and fat in the pads of the feet, including the heels and ball of the foot, also help cushion the foot. Nevertheless, the foot is unable to carry out this by itself. Foot arch support and cushioning in shoes helps add to the foot's shock-absorbing abilities and prevents foot injuries during running and jumping. Thus, it is very important to purchase shoes with excellent arch support and cushioning. Uncomfortable shoes are another key source of foot pain in both males and females. In ladies, shoes that are too small or narrow, are the reasons for most foot discomfort experienced. High heels also cause conditions because they do not provide the foot with the right amount of arch support which can cause the arch to fall and be a main contributor of foot pain. For males, hard, flat work shoes can present their own set of of challenges. Simply put, arch support is missing in these types of shoes, so they are bad choices for daily footwear. The Mayo Clinic cites that poor choice in shoes can cause flat feet to develop, especially during repeated physical strain on the feet such as in athletic activity or lifting heavy things. How Orthotic Arch Supports Can Treat Ball Of Foot Pain and Improve Foot Arch Support An effective remedy to relieving metatarsalgia and poor arch support is through the use of orthotics. These inserts are specially-made for certain foot weaknesses and cannot be bought in your local store. They can fit into any type of shoe, including high heels. They provide the vital cushion and support to feet so they can perform optimally and stay free of discomfort. |
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You Don't Have to Take Heel Bone Spurs and Plantar Fasciitis Sitting Down - 01:11, 2009-Jun-30 |
| Your Feet Can Hurt for Many Reasons Our bodies are truly astounding; they consist of the perfect harmony of bones, flesh, and natural body fluids. Unique cushioning is provided in our joints and at critical places in the body where weight-bearing pressure points occur. Nonetheless, when this delicate harmony is stopped in its tracks by an injury or physical issue, severe pain can occur. Heel bone spurs and plantar fasciitis are a couple of conditions of the feet that can impair immobility in people. The Reasons You May Have Heel Spurs or Plantar Fasciitis A heel spur is a pointed outgrowth of bone that grow out of the heel bone (calcaneus). They can be located either under or on the rear of the heel. When a heel spur is present, it can cause swelling and tearing of the muscles of the foot, which is compounded with regular activity or when pressure is placed on the affected foot. When the bony growth is located behind the heel, it can bother the Achilles tendon and cause tenderness and swelling in that zone. According to MedicineNet, pushing off of the ball of the foot makes this specific condition worse. On the other side, when the underside of the heel is where the spur is located, it irritates the plantar fascia ligament, thus causing a painful condition called plantar fasciitis. MedicineNet describes this condition as being made worse when applying pressure on the heel. The Reasons You May Have Heel Spurs and Plantar Fasciitis According to some medical studies, heel spurs can be caused by genetic factors. some of the most common causes include repeat movements and too much stretch in the arch because of physical activity, and can also develop as the result of heavy lifting. Plantar-Fasciitis.org has found that these conditions can be made worse if a person has diabetes or arthritis. But they go on to state that most cases are caused by wearing improperly-fitting shoes. Treatment Options for Heel Spurs and Plantar Fasciitis The goals in treatment of these ailments are to lessen the swelling of the soft tissues and ligaments as well as prevent reinjury. According to foot specialist Dr. William Shiel, Jr., MD, FACP, FACR, this can be achieved in several ways:
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Why Your Flat Feet Will Thank You for Wearing Orthotics - 02:42, 2009-Jun-19 |
| A recent study conducted by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) revealed that a amazing 73 percent of people polled revealed that they are suffering from foot pain. The question is: why has foot pain become one of the most common complaints in the examination room? For many people, this problem can be caused by one of the following: the kind of footwear they use, the activities they engage in, or the way their feet are formed. Usage of ill-fitting shoes can greatly exacerbate existing foot issues. People who engage in athletic activites are another segment of the population that are often afflicted by painful foot conditions. Factors such as bad protection can all be contributing factors to lower extremity pain. Mom and dad can also be the cause of foot-related problems, because genetics play a role how the foot was formed in the womb. This can enhance the risk of developing painful foot conditions such as bunions, heel spurs, and plantar fasciits. How the Foot Works on the Inside Low arches can cause abnormal rotation of the feet when walking or running. The foot is responsible for balance, stability, and bears the weight of the body. The portions of the foot that help to keep the foot in harmony with the body include the arch, heel, tarsals and meta-tarsals staggering. The arch gives stability by the following structures: the tendons, ligaments, and muscles. Pain can result from tall arches or low arches, which can cause the foot to rotate abnormally. In high arches, the weight of the body is abnormally emphasized on the outside perimeter of the foot , a condition known as over-supination. However, overpronation happens with flat feet because the body’s weight is unevenly distributed toward the inside of the foot, forcing the feet to roll toward the inside . Serious Foot Issues Occur with Flat Feet A quick test to see if flat feet or high arches are a problem is to find a good area where a foot impression can be made, such as on cement. Sink one of the feet in cold water and then stand normally for a few seconds. Then, remove the foot off the ground and see the mark that the foot leaves. A foot with overpronation will leave a total print showing the entire surface area of the bottom of the foot. A high arch will leave just a part of the ball of the foot’s, outer portion, and the heel. Either of these arch dysfunctions can contribute to spurs of bone in the heel or flat feet treatment because the foot takes too much pressure in places it is not intended to handle. Orthotics Provide Effective Relief for Treatment For Plantar Fascitis Persons with pain caused by flat feet, heel spurs, or who need treatment for flat feet can find the pain eliminated with the use of orthotic insoles. They give the needed support to fix the weakened areas in the arch of the foot. They also give cushioning in areas where too much pressure in the ball of the foot and heel. Orthotics are available in many sizes and types and are constructed to keep up with anyone’s activity level. |
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Get the Most Out of Your Sports Performance with Sport Insoles - 12:59, 2009-Jun-12 |
Shin Pain and Flat Feet: The Ways that Sports Can Damage Your Feet If you enjoy running or participating in team sports, you’re at risk for shin splints, painful knees, Achilles tendonitis, and other lower extremity injuries. Medial tibial stress syndrome, as it is referred to by the Mayo Clinic, is a pain that travels down the distance of the shin bone and is caused by undue pressure on the bones, muscles, and ligaments of the lower leg. This stress can be made possible by running activities in any setting and can be exacerbated by low arches and insufficient support of the arches. Leading sports therapy experts recommend using ice, taking a break from running or sports, and using proper shoes, preferably with the use of orthotics for sports. Putting ice on the shin and adjacent structures in the lower leg help ease pain while lowering the amount of swelling soon after an injury. Rest is always suggested because it allows for the bones, tendons and muscles to repair themselves. Finally, wearing proper shoes can radically help prevent reinjuring the lower legs and feet by providing proper cushioning and arch support. This encourages correct foot position and resists shock. Sports orthotics can make all the difference in endurance and performance because they provide arch support as well as additional cushioning. For people with low arches, these specialized orthotics for sports support the arch properly and realign the lower body. Overpronation caused by low arches can cause more than just shin splints to occur. Plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, ankle, knee, and low back pain, as well as Achilles tendonitis can be attributed to low arches. If orthotics for sports are not utilized during strenuous physical activities, re-injury and serious foot issues can occur. The workings involved in these problems are linked to the plantar fascia tendon, which is the central structure that supports the foot arch. It is an elastic structure that elongates to absorb the shock caused when the foot bears weight during activity. In people with low arches, this tendon is too long and has lost its ability to elongate. Its capacity to absorb shock has left completely. This situation also causes over-pronation of the foot, or the inclination for the ankles to roll toward the center of the body. As a result, the weight of the bdy is abnormally concentrated on one region rather than being equally distributed over the total area of the foot. This is the reason why sports orthotics can be of utmost importance in cases of low arches and other foot ailments; they provide stability and softness in the proper spots. |
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Orthotic Insoles: Why Would You Need Them? - 01:25, 2009-May-21 |
| Why Do We Need Orthotic Insoles? Approximately 70 percent of the inhabitants of the planet are diagnosed with a condition called over-pronation, something that can be the culprit for many foot problems as time passes. Certain patients over-pronate more than others. The fact that so many people have flat feet can be attributed to the hard, flat surfaces we walk on each day. Additionally, age, weak ankle muscles and body weight can be a factor. For this reason, overpronation is much more prevalent in people in their 50’s and above, and also in overweight persons. For a lot of people, over-pronation doesn't create a real problem, particularly for younger people. Nonetheless, irregular foot function caused by over-pronation can lead to various issues including plantar fasciitis, heel pain, heel spurs, metatarsalgia - even knee pain and low back pain! Orthotics correct the issue of over-pronation and can help diminish or eradicate many common aches and pains caused by flat feet and other ailments of the foot. Orthotic insoles are not expensive, with a price from $30-40/pair. Buying a pair of orthotics can be a valuable investment in your health, because they can also help avoid many future biomechanical ailments. What Are Orthotic Insoles? Orthotic insoles are devices that are positioned inside the shoes with the goal of restoring our natural foot function. Many familiar complaints such as heel pain, knee pain and low back pain are caused by poor foot biomechanics. Biomechanics is the study of movement and observes the movements of our bodies while running, walking, and participating in sports. The most usual kind of abnormal foot biomechanics is overpronation. It involves falling of the arches and the turning in of the feet and ankles. Approximately 70 percent of people suffers from overpronation to varying extents. Orthotic insoles correct overpronation and realign the foot and ankle bones to their neutral position, restoring natural foot function. Simultaneously, this will help ease problems not just in the feet, but also in other parts of the body, particularly the lower body such as the knees, hips and lower back. The Difference Between Orthotic Insoles and Ordinary Shoe Inserts There is a large difference between average inserts and orthotics. Standard inserts are only designed to give a cushioning effect and shock absorption. They may be comfortable at first, however they do not deal with any biomechanical problems i.e. they do not correct overpronation. On the other hand, orthotics are operative devices, designed to relieve and optimize our foot function. Some inserts also contain an arch support, but often the support is too weak to have any effect, especially if the inserts are made of soft materials. So how do orthotics precisely work? First of all, orthotics do a lot more than providing support to the arches. Orthotic insoles restore alignment of the feet and ankles and restore proper foot function. Furthermore, orthotics create a more stable spread of our body weight, taking pressure off tender spots such as the ball of the feet, heels, corns and bunions, etc. Additionally, they create some degree of shock absorption, but this not their key objective. The main intention of orthotics is to make foot function better. In many situations, this will diminish foot discomfort and help stop future troubles and injuries. |
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Orthotics and Exercises For Heel Pain for Effective Relief for Pain In The Heels - 02:48, 2009-May-20 |
| Foot care experts prescribe the plantar fasciitis stretching exercises shown below in combination with wearing orthotics for the relief of heel pain caused by plantar fasciitis due to over pronation. It is important to understand that these exercises for plantar fasciitis should not be painful, but rather a stretching feeling. Each exercise should be done 2 or 3 times over the course of the day; these exercises should not necessarily be done in one session. Heel pain relief exercises that you can do before getting out of bed: Plantar Fasciitis will cause many people to experience severe heel pain in the morning, when they take their first steps when they get up from bed. This pain is a result of tightening of the plantar fascia that occurs during sleep. Stretching or massaging the plantar fascia before rising will help diminish heel pain. A good exercise to do before getting up is to stretch your foot by moving it up and down 10 times. An additional exercise you can do while sitting is to use the arch of your foot to roll a rolling pin or tennis ball. Once you have the ability, progress to performing this exercise at the same time you are standing up. After these exercises, put your shoes on with orthotic shoe inserts inside them, or wear sandals with proper arch support. Don’t initiate the day walking without shoes on hard floors or tiles, or it can be guaranteed that your heel pain will come back. During the day you can perform these exercises to help lessen your heel pain: Calf stretch: While standing, face the wall and place your hands on the wall at the level of your eyes. Put the leg you want to stretch approximately a step behind your other leg. Placing your hind heel on the floor, bend your front knee until you feel a stretch in the back leg. Hold the stretch for 15 to 20 seconds. Repeat 4 times. Achilles Tendon Stretch: Step up on a stair or step. Slowly stretch your heels down over the ledge of the step while relaxing your calf muscles. Maintain the stretch for approximately fifteen to twenty seconds, you will need to now tighten your calf muscle to lift your heels to return to the level of the step. Repeat 4 times. Hamstring Stretch: Stretch one leg in front of you while you flex your foot. As you bend the other knee tilt your body back a little. Your pelvis should be tilted forward. Your torso should remain vertical as you hold the stretch for ten to twenty seconds, then swap sides. You will feel the pull up the back of your extended leg, all the way up your thigh and calf. Marble Lifts: Position marbles on the floor alongside a receptacle. Using your toes, try to lift the marbles up from the floor and place them in the cup. Repeat exercise fifteen times. Towel stretch: Grab a rolled towel at both ends, as you hold it under the ball of your foot. In a smooth motion, pull the towel toward you while keeping your knee straight. Hold this stance for 15 to 20 seconds. Repeat 4 times. By practicing these exercises regularly, you will probably relieve that heel pain. |
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The Right Orthotic Insoles Can Correct Your Excessive Pronation Problem - 12:15, 2009-May-11 |
| Generally speaking, there are three different types of arch support inserts to choose from when you are looking to make a smart investment in your feet. Each of these variants has varying characteristics, and are used depending on your particular situation.: 1) Custom (rigid) orthotics: These orthotic inserts are for people with severe biomechanical disorders i.e. more severe than the general degree of excess pronation that many of us experience. Custom-made, rigid arch support inserts must be prescribed by a podiatrist. For example, some people suffer from ‘supination’, which is the opposite to pronation. Their feet roll to the outside or 'supinate', and the arch keeps high and rigid when hitting the ground. This is called a cavus foot or high-arched foot, and only affects 5% of the world’s population. Supinators will require a custom-made orthotic that corrects this type of issue. Also, individuals with very large bunions, foot ulcers, foot deformities or completely flat feet will need to see a podiatrist. After preliminary diagnosis of flat feet, or any of the above mentioned conditions, the podiatrist will select the proper customized prescription orthotic. Then, a negative-impression plaster cast of the person’s foot is created, and this cast is then delivered to an a specialized orthotic manufacturing lab. Using this cast, a positive cast is created by pouring plaster into the negative mold. The end product is an exact replica of the bottom of the foot. From this copy, the orthotist (orthotics technician) will make a custom-made orthotic, providing the needed adjustments, as instructed by the podiatrist. The end product is a rigid (or semi-rigid) orthotic device. Although these devices are biomechanically correct, many patients find it very hard getting accustomed to them. 2) Heat-moldable orthotics: Heat-moldable orthotics are a cheaper alternative to the expensive custom-made orthotics, which can run up to hundreds of dollars per pair. They are a standard, off-the-shelf, flexible device made of medium-firm density E.V.A. material. The device then can be warmed to slightly change its contour. At times wedges are added for a more customized product. Heat-moldable orthotics cost around $100 to $140 and are to a large extent easier to get used to than custom-made stiff orthotics. 3) Prefabricated Arch Support Inserts: Prefabricated orthotics are a soft-medium density insole, available from , online from specialist websites, and also from some physiotherapists and chiropractors. Individuals will get used to these orthotics almost right away, and the cost can be from $30 to $50 per pair. Research shows that for 80 percent of individuals afflicted with over-pronation, a pre-made insole will give appropriate correction of wear, these types of orthotics will customize to the wearer’s foot shape, due to their body weight and body heat. The majority of off-the-shelf arch support inserts are made of EVA, a pliable but firm material that supports the foot without harming the arches. Children and the elderly will in particular benefit from a more pliable type of orthotic, since they tend to be less tolerant of anything stiff beneath the foot. It is always a good idea to get the advice of a specialist prior to making this type of purchase. You need to be sure you are making the best decision for your particular situation. |
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Plantar Fasciitis Pain and How it Can Be Helped With Orthotic Shoe Insoles and Plantar Fascitis Exercises - 12:57, 2009-Apr-20 |
 It is not uncommon for many people nowadays to be afflicted by plantar fasciitis pain that is so excruciating that it may hinder doing certain things in life. Heel pain is one of the most common foot ailments among people today. It can begin as an irritating pain that you feel sometimes, and grow into a sharp pain that is felt every day. Sometimes, pain in the heel can go away on its own, but, if left untreated, the pain in the heel can worsen. There are usually two places on the heel that people complain of pain, under the heel and in the back of the heel. Commonly, when people feel pain in the back of the heel it is related to excessive use or inflammation of the Achilles tendon. When people feel heel pain, it can be caused by a person stepping on a large stone or rock which bruises the heel, or the tissue in the bottom of the foot known as the plantar fascia can become inflamed. A heel that is hurt by a sharp object will heal on its own over time. Nonetheless, if the pain in the heel is a result of inflammation of the plantar fascia, there are a few things that need to be done to help including foot stretching exercises and orthotics. The soft tissue on the bottom of the foot, called the plantar fascia, connects the heel to the toes. Under usual conditions, the plantar fascia is a flexible and strong component of the foot that enables the foot to hold up our weight and allows us to stay balanced. If the foot is under abnormal stress, such as excessive body weight, repetitive movements from sports, age or compromised foot function, it can create small tears in the plantar fascia. These small tears normally develop near the calcaneus bone (heel bone), where they become swollen and cause pain. If this tissue is stretched repeatedly it can cause the creation of heel spurs. Heel spurs are bonelike growths on the heel that can be the source of quite a bit pain. If you are having plantar fasciitis pain, a popular treatment to remove the stress on the plantar is to make use of orthotic inserts and perform foot pain exercises, that will strengthen the plantar fascia as well. One of the common foot stretching exercises is stretching the foot before rising from bed. The Plantar Fascia will tighten while you sleep, which tends to cause the severe pain that people feel when they get out of bed. By stretching the bottom of the foot before putting pressure on it, you can help reduce the pain that you experience with your first morning steps. Another useful exercise for stretching out the plantar fascia is to roll a tennis ball or rolling pin with the arch of your foot. As this becomes less and less arduous you can try the same exercise in the standing position. The next important thing to do is immediately put on a comfortable pair of shoes and orthotics. This will help to cushion and support the foot arch and help to keep it from further injury. If you make use of the proper foot stretching exercises and orthotic inserts, you will see a great improvement in your heel pain. Make sure to pay attention to your body and if you are experiencing foot pain, call a doctor as soon as possible. This will ensure that your pain does not develop into a more serious issue. |
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Metatarsal Pain: How to Ease the Discomfort - 03:34, 2009-Apr-13 |
 Foot pain and high heels is a very common question among women who wear them, so it needs to be addressed. Nevertheless, many women feel obligated to wear these shoes for the sake of fashion. The human foot was not designed to wear high heels, and this is the main reason wearing them causes so much pain. A fashion expert may say that high-heeled shoes were not designed with comfort and pain-free walking in mind either. The main purpose of our feet is to give us balance and the ability to walk and run. Nonetheless, wearing high-heeled shoes can put excessive wear and tear on our feet, which can not only cause improper foot function, but also cause severe pain.When women wear high heels, their feet tend to slide towards the front of the shoe, this forces the body to redistribute its weight in an unnatural way, which changes the optimal alignment of the body. At this point it is beneficial to start wearing high heel shoe inserts. Arch support insoles help by supporting the foot and keeping it from sliding down. There are numerous foot ailments related to wearing high heels. Some of the most common conditions include metatarsal pain, Achilles Tendonitis, hammertoe, calluses, corns, bunions, among others. Metatarsal pain, one of the results of wearing high heels all the time, happens when one or more of the metatarsal heads become inflamed due to too much pressure. This condition causes sharp pain of the metatarsal area of the feet, which is found below the toes. Wearing inserts for high heels can help to alleviate the pain caused by wearing high-heeled shoes. Symptoms of ball of foot pain are usually a burning and tingling sensation in the ball of the foot. There is often also an excessive accumulation of calluses in the same region. Tips to Minimize Foot Pain After Wearing High Heels
It is important to remember that healthy feet are much more important than style and fashion for our long-term health and well-being. |
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Heel Pain In Athletes: How to Relieve Plantar Fasciitis Using Orthotic Insoles - 03:27, 2009-Mar-20 |
 Foot arch pain in athletes can become an excruciating experience. If you have an active lifestyle, it's difficult to adjust your routine to limit your physical activity once you encounter heel or arch pain. This makes it important to know the symptoms and treatment methods for some of the most common types of heel pain or arch pain that develop among runners. Understanding the different types of sports injuries is the key to effective treatment of foot arch pain in athletes.Describing Plantar Fascitis When the plantar fascia, a thick, fibrous band of connective tissue in the sole of the foot that supports the arch of the foot is inflamed, it causes plantar fascitis pain. This tissue connects the ball of the foot to the heel. When the foot is on the ground and supporting all of your body weight, it stretches this tissue. Inflammation occurs when this tissue is stretched too far and tears. A sudden movement or the effects of long-term stress can cause this condition. Foot Arch Pain In Athletes May Often be Caused by Plantar Fascitis Plantar fascitisis a common type of foot arch pain in athletes for a number of reasons. Runners often have exercise routines that are simply too long, and too stressful on the feet and plantar fascia, and those with flat feet can be at a higher risk. Combining shoes that lack proper arch support and running routines that are too extensive puts repetitive stress on the plantar fascia, particularly where it connects to the heel. Severe pain is caused as a result of the inflammation of the torn fibers. The following are some of the more common causes of Plantar Fasciitis:
The most common place to feel pain is on the bottom of the foot where the plantar fascia is attached to the heel bone. Due to the fact that the fascia constricts when you sleep, you will typically feel the most pain in the mornings. When you stand up, the sudden stretch and load of your body weight pulls on the attachment to the heel bone. Symptoms of foot arch pain in athletes vary from mild to severe. The pain may linger for months at a time, with pain increasing and decreasing in an unpredictable pattern. In many cases, the pain vanishes for several weeks, but can easily come back after a single workout or change in activity. The pain may even temporarily fade as you walk. Plantar Fasciitis is a common condition that runners experience, and along with the triggers shown above, may be caused by rapid intensification in your training schedule, or by switching running surfaces. This is evident, especially when going from a soft surface to a harder one. Ways to Prevent Plantar Fascitis Treating plantar fasciitis pain can be a long process. foot arch pain in athletes can be avoided in a number of ways. Most sports physiotherapists recommend the following approach to prevent Plantar Fasciitis: Stretch - before, during, and after sportsactivity. Tight calf and/or hamstring muscles (behind the thigh) limit range of motion and put extra strain on the plantar fascia. Keeping muscles flexible and relaxed and joints mobile can be accomplished by stretching as a warm up and a cool down. Performing plantar fasciitis exercises to stretch the plantar fascia is highly recommended. Adequate Footwear and Orthotic Shoe Inserts – Ensure that you have good footwear. Many cases will benefit from wearing orthotic insoles inside the shoes to improve foot biomechanics. Going barefoot is a bad idea, even at home. Make sure your shoes provide support, and try running on a softer surface. Try a Different Activity – You don't have to stop exercising, however consider switching to a non-weight bearing sport like swimming or cycling. When you do try running again, begin at a much lower level of intensity and a shorter distance, then you can build up gradually. Lessen the time you spend on your feet and reduce the intensity of your training. Apply Ice – Icing the heel area will help decrease the inflammation and pain. Set your foot on a bag of frozen vegetables or a frozen bottle of water wrapped in a towel 3 or 4 times a day for 5 to 10 minutes each time. Never ice more than once an hour to prevent risk of ice burn to desensitized tissue. If the problem persists, talk to a podiatrist or physiotherapist. |
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Mortons Neuroma: Main Causes and Therapy Using Arch Support Inserts - 02:32, 2009-Mar-11 |
| Mortons Neuroma: Common Symptoms A neuroma is identified by a noncancerous lump of nerve tissue that has the potential to grow in any part of the body. Mortons Neuroma is a condition in which compression occurs to the nerve located between the third and fourth metatarsal bones in the foot, triggering hardeining of this nerve tissue. When there is pressure on the nerve symptoms such as tingling and numbness of the toes start to occur. These symptoms are more pronounced when there is weight placed on the front of the foot, causing pain. What Causes the Pain Associated With Mortons Neuroma? Causes of Mortons Neuroma are not unequivocally clear, but anything that squeezes this nerve can lead to the thickening of this tissue. Mortons Neuroma can be caused by wearing high heeled shoes that constrict the toes. Also, being flat-footed can cause the metatarsals to drop, which places pressure on this nerve. Thickening of this tissue can also be caused by irritation to the nerve or injury. What Leads to Metatarsal Pain? Another foot condition that is characterized by pain in this are is known as ball of foot pain. This condition is a frequent occurrence among women who wear high-heeled shoes, or people who wear shoes with no cushion or arch support. The bones in the foot can drop when the structure of the foot is weakend. We can experience pain when we wear shoes that do not provide the proper support and cushion. Also, people that suffer from over-pronation can experience ball of foot pain in the ball of their feet. Over-pronation is a condition in which the ankles tend to roll inward and can lead to arch pain. How to Diagnose and Treat Mortons Neuroma To properly treat this condition, one must get a proper diagnosis. A podiatrist usually examines the foot by pressing on the area of pain, squeezing the toes and pressing into the space between the third and fourth toes. In some cases, he or she may be able to feel the neuroma. Doctors can also try to elicit Mulder’s sign, a clicking noise, by pushing on the area of pain. If the doctor unable to feel a neuroma, he or she can use other methods such as an x-ray to discard the possibility of any broken bones. An MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) allows doctors to clearly diagnose a neuroma. Treatments for Morton’s Neuroma can consist of several options, from resting the foot to surgery. In many cases the doctor will try the most conservative treatments first. Conservative treatments include resting the feet, wearing more comfortable shoes and trying orthotic insoles to improve arch support. Arch support inserts also assist in distributing your weight more evenly over the entire foot, lessening the pressure on the ball of the foot. In many cases the combination of these conservative treatments does provide relief from the pain that you may be experiencing. In severe cases, where these options do not work, your doctor may prescribe injections to attempt to reduce the size of the neuroma. In extreme situations, surgery may be the only feasible option. Taking care of our feet is an extremely important factor in our overall health and well-being. If you are suffering from chronic foot pain, it is best to have a doctor examine your feet as soon as possible in order to determine the cause. |
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Plantar Fasciitis and Heel Spurs: How Orthotics Can Help - 11:30, 2009-Feb-17 |
What are the Symptoms of Heel Bone Spurs? Heel spurs are nail-like growths that form around the ligaments and tendons of the foot where they attach to the heel bone. Symptoms of heel spurs are intense pain in the heel on rising and aching in the foot that does not go away. These boney growths can dig into the inflamed flesh of the foot, causing pain. At the onset, the pain can be very sharp and will be present upon standing. Over time, the pain can subside to a dull ache, but this can become a continuous source of aggravation for the patient. Heel bone spurs cause pain by jabbing into soft tissue that has become very irritated and inflamed, a condition called plantar fascia stress. What Leads to Heel Bone Spurs A common trigger of heel spurs is when the Plantar Fascia, the thick connective tissue that attaches the toes to the heel becomes inflamed. This unnatural pressure on the heel causes calcification of the soft tissue in the foot, creating plantar fasciitis. Things that cause this include abnormal stress, excessive weight, age or poor foot function. When the tissue becomes more rigid, it is torn over and over by the recurring use of the foot. As the tissue becomes inflamed, it results in heel spurs. Common Treatments for Heel Bone Spurs A foot x-ray is the only way to properly diagnose this condition. With an x-ray, your doctor can verify that a heel spur has developed. Treatments vary from elevating the foot to much more serious solutions like foot surgery. Many people are able to lessen inflammation by applying gentle heat to the heel. This alleviates the pain by dilating the blood vessels in the foot and increasing blood circulation. Many people notice that simply wearing orthotic shoe inserts can provide significant relief. These are designed to correct over-pronation and add support to the arches of the foot. By removing the strain on the Plantar Fascia, the tissues in the foot are allowed to heal properly. Many arch support insoles come with additional heel pads that act as shock absorbers for the heel which help to immediately relieve the pain. Also, there are physical therapy options such as diathermy that can also be helpful in reducing inflammation. This process uses an electrical current to produce heat that will ease plantar fascia stress. Plantar Fascitis Put a Stop to Heel Bone Spurs One way to help prevent heel spurs is to properly stretch the tissues in the foot and calf before any rigorous exercise. By stretching these tissues, you allow them to become more and more flexible which reduces the likelihood of plantar fascia stress. It is also essential to wear shoes that fit properly and provide ample arch support and cushioning to the foot. Adding orthotic shoe inserts to any shoe can help alleviate strain on the Plantar Fascia that could cause heel spurs. Being mindful of our feet is a very important step in staying healthy. Healthy feet are a critical component to our long-term health. |
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