5 Non-Invasive Plantar Fasciitis Treatment Options
Plantar fasciitis is a medical condition that leads to pain in the heel and bottom of the foot. This condition occurs when the band of tissue that runs from the heel to the toes becomes inflamed. Overuse, such as prolonged standing, walking, or wearing improper-fitting shoes, can cause this ailment. There are several non-invasive treatment options for those suffering from plantar fasciitis. Here, we will discuss a few essential non-invasive plantar fasciitis treatment options that can help to reduce pain and increase flexibility in the foot and ankle.
Plantar Fasciitis Treatment Options
Plantar fasciitis can be highly painful and discomforting. It can hinder your day-to-day life and activities. Therefore it is recommended to get timely treatment. Several treatments can help ease the pain brought on by plantar fasciitis, including:
Stretching and Strengthening Exercises
Stretching and strengthening exercises can efficiently improve your foot and ankle flexibility, reducing pain. The calf stretch involves placing your hands on a wall and stepping back with one foot. The back leg remains straight, with your front leg slightly bent. This stretch can help to reduce pain and increase flexibility because it focuses on the calf muscles and Achilles tendon. The plantar fascia stretch is another helpful stretch. It Involves sitting with the affected foot on top of the opposite knee and gently pulling your toes toward the shin. This stretch focuses on the plantar fascia, which can help in pain relief and increase flexibility.
You can also strengthen your foot and ankle muscles by completing strength exercises such as calf and toe raises. These exercises can be performed at home or under a physical therapist’s supervision. Toe raises involve standing with the balls of the feet on a step and lifting yourself on the toes, whereas calf raises involve standing on the edge of a step and doing the same action. As you complete these exercises, your foot and ankle muscles become stronger, your flexibility increases, and the pain reduces.
Custom Orthotic Insoles For Treating Plantar Fasciitis
The insoles, known as custom orthotic insoles, are created specifically to fit the distinctive contours of your feet. Wearing these within your shoes helps redistribute pressure on your foot and support the arch, which can relieve the discomfort brought on by plantar fasciitis. A podiatrist can recommend custom orthotic insoles. Custom inserts are a versatile and practical option for treating plantar fasciitis, as you can wear them in any shoe style.
Ice therapy
Ice therapy is a quick and easy way to relieve the pain and inflammation brought on by plantar fasciitis. To perform ice therapy, you must apply a cold pack or bag of frozen peas to the affected area for 15-20 minutes several times per day. Ice therapy constricts your blood vessels, reduces pain and inflammation, and can be performed at home. However, it is most effective when combined with other forms of care.
Massage
Massaging the affected area can reduce the pain caused by plantar fasciitis. Also, your massage can improve blood flow, speeding up the healing process. Using a tennis ball or rolling pin to massage the bottom of the foot gently is a simple at-home technique. This easy technique reduces pain by rubbing the area as it helps to loosen tight muscles and tendons.
Planters Foot Treatment
Wearing a particular shoe or boot made to support the arch and heel is also effective in treating plantar fasciitis. By redistributing pressure on the foot, these shoes can help to reduce pain caused due to plantar fasciitis. Designed and made with integrated arch support and a cushioned heel, they can offer the support and comfort required to reduce pain and increase flexibility. They are typically constructed from high-quality materials and intended to last a long time.
While choosing a planter’s foot treatment helps you overcome this ailment, selecting a shoe that fits comfortably and offers enough support is crucial. To choose the correct shoe, consider the activities that will be completed when worn. For instance, it’s essential to choose a shoe made for the activity it will be used for, such as walking or running.
The Takeaway
The heel and bottom of the foot can experience severe pain and discomfort due to plantar fasciitis. However, there are a variety of non-surgical treatment options that can help to reduce discomfort and increase flexibility in the foot and ankle. Plantar fasciitis can be effectively treated with stretching and strengthening exercises, custom orthotic insoles, ice therapy, massage, and planters foot therapy. To find the best treatment for you, you must speak with a podiatrist or physical therapist. Early treatment can limit the condition from getting worse and becoming chronic. Lastly, it’s crucial to pay attention to your footwear and ensure it fits properly and offers enough support to reduce chronic pain.