“Plantar fasciitis? Orthotics! I just have pain under my feet…”. This is often what we tell ourselves when a professional informs us that we have inflammation of the fascia and need to treat it quickly. In active individuals, this inflammation (which is common) results from an injury caused by sports, but it can also, in others, be the consequence of a physiological condition or even an anatomical anomaly. Fortunately, technology now offers simplified and effective orthopedic solutions. Here’s what you need to know about plantar fasciitis and orthotics.
Plantar Fasciitis in a Few Words
Due to poor foot positioning, excessive strain, an injury, etc., pain under the soles of the feet can appear and persist. When the heel or arch of the foot becomes unusually sensitive, it indicates the presence of inflammation, possibly in the band of connective tissue that keeps the arch tense and curved (the foot’s arch). This elastic band plays a fundamental role in supporting and absorbing functions of our feet; it is subjected to tension forces when stretched. Its name? The superficial plantar aponeurosis (SPA).
The SPA is more commonly referred to as the “plantar fascia,” hence the term plantar fasciitis when it is diagnosed that the fascia—this ligamentous tissue connecting the heel bone to the metatarsal heads (the start of the toes)—is inflamed. Such inflammation corresponds to damage to the plantar fascia: overstretching, micro-tears, rupture. This is often felt as a sharp pain when getting out of bed or after sitting for a long time.
Plantar Pain as a Symptom of Fasciitis
Even though the pain may subside or disappear during the day, it does not mean the condition is gone. Plantar fasciitis (or aponeurosis) fluctuates in a way. When standing, under the weight of our body, the stretch on the fascia is maximal. The more intense or prolonged the physical activity, the more the plantar fascia is stressed; full foot loading (sometimes associated with pronation) then triggers the pain, often located under the heel. Age, excess weight, or conditions such as flat feet or high arches contribute to the development of aponeurosis but can be “compensated” for, as we will see later, with the use of orthotics.
Taking the time to identify your limitations or sensitive areas is useful; this can help the podiatrist pinpoint what is affecting you. Plantar fasciitis presents different symptoms: a feeling of warmth or stinging under the heel, pinching, stabbing pain under the foot’s arch, a sharp pain when palpating the fascia, painful compensation in the lower limbs while walking or climbing stairs, etc.
Can Technological Orthotics Treat Plantar Fasciitis?
The answer is yes. Technological orthotics, meaning those custom-made using 3D foot scanning and a 3D printing process, are an excellent option in treating plantar fasciitis. Their high effectiveness also lies in the fact that they are prescribed (by a professional) and made from superior technical materials. 3D-printed orthotics represent a treatment option for all types of conditions, from mild to severe.
In this way, they stand apart from over-the-counter pre-fabricated orthotics, which are only suitable for mild issues. It is important to always assess the severity of your foot pain because an ill-fitting orthotic, whether for a biomechanical problem or a health condition, can worsen plantar fasciitis or another condition.
Choosing Skeltec Orthotics
Made from the precise biometric data of each patient, validated by the professional’s expertise and integrated into a comprehensive orthopedic treatment, technological orthotics (better than any other orthotics) help support, realign, correct, cushion, and provide comfort for your feet.
As advanced orthopedic devices, Skeltec orthotics are among the best; they are the ideal orthotics to stop your foot pain. Whether due to a musculoskeletal deficiency, excessive strain, or an injury, plantar fasciitis can be well-controlled or even overcome by the products offered by Skeltec.
Your foot care professional is probably familiar with the latest foot scanning procedures, 3D printing manufacturing methods, and memory materials. Discuss these new podiatric orthotic technologies with them and the best choices based on your specific issue. They will likely teach you a lot about how to improve your quality of life.