For most people, the feet are one of the last places they think about when it comes to their health. However, your foot and ankle health can have a big impact on your overall health and well-being. Chronic foot pain or heel pain can not only make simple activities more challenging, but they have the potential to lead to more serious health problems.
Whether you've put too much stress on your feet by competing in sports, or your feet are showing natural signs of wear and tear from aging, it's important to find the right treatment to relieve your pain. That's why we've explained how custom orthotics can help you manage chronic foot pain.
Injuries Of The Foot
There are several different injuries and conditions that can cause foot and heel pain, and each one comes with its own set of symptoms. Some of the most common foot injuries are:
- Overuse injuries - These are injuries that occur when the foot is used excessively or repetitively without proper rest. Overuse injuries of the foot can include:
- Achilles Tendonitis - This is a condition that causes pain and inflammation in the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscle to the heel bone. Achilles tendonitis is often caused by overuse or repetitive stress on the Achilles tendon.
- Plantar Fasciitis - This is a condition that causes pain in the arch or heel of the foot. It's usually caused by overuse, repetitive stress, or tightness in the plantar fascia.
- Stress Fractures - These are tiny cracks in the bone that develop when the bone is overloaded with too much stress. Stress fractures of the foot are often caused by repetitive impact or overuse.
- Acute Injuries - These are injuries that occur suddenly and are usually the result of an accident or fall. Acute injuries to the foot and ankle can be extremely painful and make it difficult to put weight on the foot. Some common acute injuries are:
- An ankle fracture - When the bones in the ankle are broken, this is called an ankle fracture.
- An ankle sprain - When the ligaments in the ankle are torn, this is called an ankle sprain.
- A broken toe or foot - When one of the bones in the toe or foot is broken, this is referred to as a broken toe or a broken foot. These are usually the result of a fall or an accident, like dropping something heavy on the bone.
While overuse injuries and acute injuries are the most common types of foot injuries, other conditions can cause pain in the feet, like arthritis and diabetes. Many injuries and conditions can lead to chronic foot pain and cause a hindrance to your daily life. If you have sustained an injury, or experience pain in your foot, heel, or ankle, it is important to seek treatment from a podiatrist.
How Custom Orthotics Can Help
Custom orthotics are specially made shoe inserts that can be used to treat a variety of foot conditions that cause moderate to severe pain. The affected foot is examined and molded by a podiatrist to create a unique insert that fits the contours of the foot. Custom orthotics are commonly used to relieve pain and improve walking abilities in patients with chronic foot pain.
Wearing poorly fitting shoes, or wearing shoes that do not provide adequate support can often lead to foot pain. This is especially true for people who have flat feet or high arches. Custom orthotics can help to correct these problems by providing support and alignment for the affected foot. Most patients who use orthotics experience a significant reduction in pain, and many can return to their normal activities.
Custom orthotics can also be used to prevent foot injuries in people who are at risk for developing them, improve balance and posture, and increase overall stability. This is especially beneficial for older adults, as foot and ankle injuries can put them at high risk for falls and injuries. Additionally, custom orthotics can help to realign your spine and hips, which can relieve pain in your lower back, hips, and legs.
If you have chronic foot pain, reach out to the experts at San Antonio Podiatry Associates about whether custom orthotics might be the right treatment for you. Our team of podiatrists will work with you to come up with a unique treatment plan and get you back on your feet in no time.
Are you looking for a foot and ankle specialist near you? Find toenail fungus treatments or other foot and ankle pain relief fast from the podiatrists at San Antonio Podiatry Associates. With more than 145 years of combined experience, our team is equipped to provide you with an accurate diagnosis and the efficient, personalized treatment you need. Schedule an appointment today, or call 210-405-7672 for more information.
