Plantar fasciitis is a significantly painful condition which makes even the toughest of athletes cringe. The pain associated could become very severe which ultimately leads to restricting the patient from engaging in any physical activity. This condition affects athletes, sportsmen, and average non-athletes alike. The gait cycle comprises of the following 2 stages; pronation (compression phase) and supination (propulsive phase). The muscle associated, the plantar fascia, is the connective tissue which helps the foot transition to the propulsive phase in the gait cycle.
If the foot stays in the pronation phase for an extended period of time, it affects how well the shock or impact is absorbed. This in turn has an effect on how comfortably one can walk, stand, or run. When the stability of the foot is affected, more stress is placed on the plantar fascia muscle and this results in heel pain and inflammation. The use of shoe inserts are used to better distribute this stress and promote proper gait.
Use Of Plantar Fasciitis Insoles
Use of shoe inserts is the most common way patients get relief from pain. They act by stabilizing the foot to reduce stress applied to sensitive areas. It is also good to be used as a preventive measure if you feel even slight onset of symptoms for this condition. Properly structured heel cups positioned under the heel area help reduce impact of forces applied to the soft tissue affected. Studies have shown that nearly 80% of patients suffering from this medical condition have found relief through the following therapies.
- Stretching exercises targeting foot and leg muscles
- Reducing highly strenuous physical activity to limit the amount of stress applied to sensitive areas
- Use of plantar fasciitis insoles
Source : http://shoeinsoles.jigsy.com/entries/shoe-insoles/the-treatment-of-plantar-fasciitis-using-shoe-inserts