Heel pain is a common complaint for many people. Although there can be many causes, the most common cause of heel pain is plantar fasciitis. Many people commonly refer to having a heel spur, but the truth is that heel spurs don’t actually cause pain, they are just a symptom of an imbalance in the foot, often caused by plantar fasciitis.
Plantar fasciitis is an inflammatory disorder of the plantar fascia, which is the connective tissue on the bottom of the foot. The heel spurs that are often a result of plantar fasciitis are soft calcium deposits that form as a result of the tension and inflammation taking place where the plantar fascia attaches to the heel.
The plantar fascia is a connective tissue that plays an integral roll in the functioning of the foot. It not only encapsulates the muscles of the foot, but it is a major supporter of the arch of the foot, acting like a bowstring connecting the heel and ball of the foot.
As you walk, the plantar fascia endures a tremendous amount of tension. This tension can be made worse if the calf muscles lack flexibility. The normal tension endured by the plantar fascia is about two times your body weight, so increased body weight leads to increased stress and strain on the plantar fascia.
Over time, the tremendous pressure placed on the plantar fascia can lead to inflammation. This inflammation can lead to the chronic condition of plantar fasciitis. Treatment of plantar fasciitis can include resting the feet, stretching the foot and calf muscle, as well as icing the bottom of the foot to reduce inflammation. Losing weight can also have a positive impact.
But if plantar fasciitis persists, it can have a debilitating effect on your life. Pain associated with plantar fasciitis can minimize walking or standing and prevent you from performing simple, everyday activities.
If you are experiencing heel pain you may need to see a doctor. But understand that surgery is the last resort. One simple solution to minimizing the effects of plantar fasciitis is arch supports. Proper arch supports will cushion the plantar fascia and provide the proper support to minimize the tension and strain on the foot.
Spenco insoles and orthotic arch supports have been around for over 40 years and offer podiatrist recommended, laboratory tested, proven quality products for people suffering from heel pain and plantar fasciitis.
TheInsoleStore offers the full line of Spenco products and can help you choose the right arch support. If you suffer from heel pain it doesn’t necessarily mean you have plantar fasciitis, but it does usually tell you that there is an imbalance in the foot. Spenco insoles and orthotic arch supports will help bring balance back to your feet and provide the comfort and support you need to maintain healthy and properly functioning feet.