Our Skilled TX Podiatrist Explains How Orthotics Can Help Reduce Plantar Fasciitis Symptoms

If you’re one of the 10 percent of Americans diagnosed with plantar fasciitis, you’re likely experiencing a great deal of foot pain. This foot condition can cause intense discomfort and may become debilitating without the proper treatment. Custom orthotics for help with plantar fasciitis

The good news is that there are several interventions that the podiatrists at Austin Foot and Ankle Specialists can suggest to alleviate your discomfort. One of these options is custom orthotics.

What to Know About Custom Orthotics

Orthotics are inserts that are worn inside your shoe to help treat foot and ankle issues. You may have seen mass-produced options for sale at your pharmacy or at places that sell shoes. Store-bought orthotics can provide increased cushioning, and some people find that they experience some relief from using them. However, because these orthotics are a “one size fits all” model, it’s unlikely they can address all of your unique needs. Custom orthotics are personalized to each individual, so they give you the support you need for your specific foot and/or ankle condition.

Custom orthotics are available in hard (rigid) or soft varieties, and your podiatrist can explain which option is best for you, especially if you suffer from plantar fasciitis.

How Orthotics Can Help When You Have Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the tissue band, the plantar fascia, connecting the heel bone to the toes. Patients who suffer from plantar fasciitis usually experience severe, stabbing pain in the foot near the heel, especially in the morning.

There are many factors that can cause this foot condition, including jobs that require standing for long periods of time, especially on hard surfaces, weight gain, and ill-fitting shoes or those that have no arch support. Plantar fasciitis can also be caused by tightness in the muscles and joints of the leg.

There are a variety of treatments to help manage the pain of plantar fasciitis, including the use of custom orthotics. These custom-made medical devices are inserted into your shoe and are designed to help correct any problems you have with the biomechanics of your feet and work to support fallen arches and/or control over-pronation. Orthotics help provide the added support you need, so there is reduced irritation on your joints, ligaments, and tendons that often brings about pain and discomfort in your heels and arches.

The Importance of Arch Support

Having proper arch support is critical when treating plantar fasciitis. Using a custom orthotic helps reduce the tension on the plantar fascia, and this encourages the damaged and inflamed tissue to heal at a faster rate. Because arch support is so critical to helping heal plantar fasciitis, it’s important that you not walk barefoot if you have this condition. This increases the strain on your foot and increases the likelihood of further injury to your foot and fascia. Without a shoe, your foot won’t get the needed shock absorption, and it can delay the healing process.

Benefits of Custom Orthotics Vs. Store-Bought Products for Treating Plantar Fasciitis

If you’ve been diagnosed with plantar fasciitis, you may wonder if you should invest in custom orthotics or simply buy an over-the-counter product at your local pharmacy. Our skilled podiatrists maintain that custom orthotics are the best choice for the following reasons:

  • Custom orthotics are specifically designed for your feet. That means there is no other orthotic out there like it. Our podiatrists ensure your orthotics are made to the individual shape of your foot and address your specific medical condition. Over-the-counter product are generic in nature and are not made to meet your specific needs. While a store-bought product may provide some temporary relief, it can’t match the quality of a custom orthotic to help relieve pressure on your plantar fascia.
  • Custom orthotics are long-lasting. They may be a bit more expensive than a store-bought product, but they’ll likely last longer. At Austin Foot and Ankle Specialists, we use high-quality technology to ensure that we provide materials that are long-lasting and fit you properly. This is especially important if you suffer from plantar fasciitis and may need a lengthy recovery period.

How a Texas Podiatrist Can Help Treat Your Plantar Fasciitis

If you have plantar fasciitis, our foot and ankle care doctors can help you treat this condition in many ways, including through the use of custom orthotics:

  • They will perform a comprehensive evaluation of your feet and your gait
  • They will provide an accurate diagnosis
  • They will advise you about the pros and cons of various treatment options
  • They will work with you to develop a customized treatment plan
  • They will provide a professional fitting if you do need custom orthotics
  • They will monitor your progress and offer adjustments and ongoing care with your orthotics

Austin Foot and Ankle Specialists Go the Distance for You

When you have a foot or an ankle problem, you want a team of specialists who will give you clear answers about your condition, treat you with state-of-the-art equipment, and provide you with a treatment plan that directly addresses your specific issue. Our podiatrists understand the importance of healthy feet, and with their education and training, they provide you with the best options for a speedy recovery.

The award-winning podiatrists at Austin Foot and Ankle Specialists are recognized across the country for their depth of knowledge, treatment options, and outstanding service. If you are experiencing foot or ankle pain, contact us at 512-328-8900, or take advantage of our online appointment scheduling.

Craig Thomajan
Craig Thomajan
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Austin Podiatrist