How can you manage your heel pain?

Sept. 15, 2014 - PRLog -- The two most common conditions which lead to pain in the feet (specifically near the heels) are plantar fasciitis and a heel spur.

Plantar fasciitis is caused by inflammation of the connective tissues in the sole of foot from the arch to the heel. A heel spur is caused by an outgrowth of the heel bone (calcaneus) which makes the bone spike shaped. Heel spurs can cause sharp foot pain at the bottom or front of the heel bone. These two conditions can occur together or independent of each other. To determine which condition you have, a physiotherapy assessment is recommended.

There are numerous reasons for these conditions to occur such as poor foot alignment, improper training or technique, poor footwear, ankle/foot weakness, or tight muscles. Custom Made Orthotics are a very important tool to use when heel pain is present because they help to improve foot alignment, provide stability to the joints, support the arch, and decrease pressure on the bony outgrowths.

Along with an active physiotherapy program to stretch tight muscles and strengthen weak muscles, massage therapy can also be used to help alleviate tension in the leg muscles which contribute to altered foot mechanics. Another helpful tool is use of the Strassburg Sock which helps stretch the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon during the evening when you sleep.  About 50 to 60 percent of people who use this will feel a great difference when it comes to pain relief.  For more information on orthotics and how you can better manage your foot pain, book an appointment at Queen West Physiotherapy in Brampton.