A huge amount of customers come to our store during any given month complaining of terrible heel pain.  This problem is so prevalent that we often see several people in one day.  So what can you do to make the pain stop?  I would like to offer some tips that we have learned through dealing with this problem on a daily basis.

About plantar fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the fascia which stretches from the base of your medial heel (inner side) to your toes.  The pain is almost always originates from the end of the fascia that is attached to the heel, but it also sometimes occurs in the medial arch area of the foot.

In most cases of plantar fasciitis, the pain is most excruciating when a person steps out of bed in the morning, or has been sitting down for a long period of time.  The plantar fascia develops very tiny tears while exercising, or even during normal day-to-day activities.  These microscopic tears begin to repair themselves as you rest your feet overnight or while sitting.  When you stand up again and apply pressure to the fascia the tiny tears tear again which causes the intense pain upon standing up after a long rest.  The pain usually becomes bearable after loosening up for some period of time, but it will reoccur upon resting.

The remedies

Shoes and arch supports

There are several remedies available for the treatment of this problem, but one of the most effective strategies in our experience dealing with plantar fasciitis involves a properly supportive shoe combined with an effective arch support.  So what constitutes the proper shoe and arch support?  The proper shoe must not be too mushy, and most people will require something with a high amount of stability; often times a motion control shoe.  At the store we can evaluate people based on their foot type to properly fit the shoes based on their individual gait.  An arch support does best when it is placed in a properly fitted shoe.  For our customers we can often use our own custom cut-out arch supports which are free of charge when purchasing shoes.  Occasionally this is still not enough support and an over-the-counter arch support will more aggressively treat the problem.

Don’t go barefoot!

One thing which many sufferers do not realize is that walking barefoot or in cheap, flat flip-flops will aggravate this problem.  When getting out of bed it’s best to put on some slippers or sandals with a good arch support.  We also carry a very supportive sandal for this purpose which can be slipped on easily, and even worn in the shower.

Stretching

Stretching can be a very beneficial activity for plantar fasciitis.  A gastrocnemius stretch is a good choice.  There is even a “sock” available that you can wear while in bed that keeps the fascia in a stretched position, which has been beneficial in many cases.  Additionally sufferers have found relief through usage of massaging tools such as “The Stick” (also sold in our store) and nubby foot-massaging balls.

Cortisone injections

A fair amount of sufferers who come to our store seem to have received a cortisone shot before coming to us.   This one seems to get mixed reviews, and the shot itself is usually described as being painful.  After the shot is given, some will feel total relief.  I’ve met some who were relieved completely and others who were not.

The last resort

Surgery.  Surgery can go both ways it seems with feet.  I’ve talked to people who have never felt better, and I’ve also talked to people who are suffering with other complications resulting from surgery.  It is our opinion that surgery should be a last resort.  There are, however, several non-invasive techniques that have emerged in recent years that have provided some with relief.  In my opinion, you should pursue a non-invasive treatment if possible.

How long will it hurt?

This is a tough question as it seems to vary wildly for different people.  I’ve personally talked to people who would get over it rather quickly, and people who are still fighting with this problem for over a year.  However, the majority of sufferers, when pursuing these remedies ardently, will be relieved of this painful malady in short order.

So, are you suffering from plantar fasciitis, or do you have a success story?  Please share your experience in the comments section.