subject: Comfort Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis [print this page] Comfort Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis Comfort Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is a painful foot problem that also happens to be the number one cause of heel pain. The name comes from the plantar fascia which is the ligament that connects your heel bone to your toes. It supports the arch of your foot. When the ligament is damaged, it can become swollen, inflamed, and weak. It will begin to hurt when you walk. Plantar fasciitis is most common among middle aged people. However, it can also affect anyone who is on his or her feet a lot, as well as athletes. Plantar fasciitis is caused when there is strain placed on the ligament. Enough strain can eventually lead to small tears. Tearing can cause significant pain and swelling. There are several reasons for this to happen: you have high arches or flat feet, you stand for very long periods of time on hard surfaces, you have excessive pronation (feet roll forward when you walk), you are overweight, you do not wear proper fitting shoes, or you have tight Achilles tendons. The only real symptom is pain when walking. You will notice that it hurts when you take the first few steps in the morning or after sitting for a long time. The pain may dissipate after a few steps, but it will eventually return as the day progresses. However, if you tend to have foot pain at night, this could be tarsal tunnel syndrome.When you visit the doctor, he will diagnose it by watching you walk and stand and ask you questions about your physical activity. An X-ray may be taken to rule out a bone problem. In terms of treatment, there are several different methods. The most important thing to do is to cut back on your physical activities so that your foot can rest. You should also try not to walk or run on hard surfaces. Over the counter pain relievers and ice can help to reduce the pain and swelling. A new pair of comfort shoes is also recommended, especially since your shoes may be causing the problem to begin with. You can find plantar fasciitis shoes that will help support your heels and arch. You can also purchase arch supports to put inside all of your shoes. Arch supports will relieve the pressure so make sure you always use them. Avoid wearing high heels or any other shoes that may cause pain and discomfort. Comfort shoes are the key to recovery. Add calf stretches to your daily routine, both in the morning and throughout the day. If none of these treatment methods work, your doctor may first try splints to wear at night. This will give the muscle a very mild stretch while you are sleeping. If that doesn't work, you may receive steroid medicine shots in your heel. Surgery is a last resort and only necessary for patients who have not seen improvement in six to twelve months. Pain should lessen within a few weeks, but it could take months before it is completely gone. Once you begin treatment, you need to continue it or the pain will come back.
