If you have a painful foot problem like plantar fasciitis, then you may want to speak to your podiatrist or general physician about ways to reduce the foot pain. Orthotics may be suggested to assist the problem. There are a few things you can do to make sure the orthotics are successful. Keep reading to learn what these things are.

Ask For Custom Devices

You can purchase orthotics from a number of stores and online retailers. However, these are not always the best option to reduce certain types of plantar fasciitis pain. For example, if your feet are an unusual shape or size, then it can be difficult to find orthotics that fit your feet. Also, if you have a pronation or supination issue where the heel rolls inward or outward, then general use orthotics will likely not offer the support they need.

If you have an abnormal foot shape or size and if your foot rolls abnormally, then speak with your podiatrist about a custom device. Custom orthotics are made to match your exact foot size, shape, and gait issue to reduce your plantar fasciitis issue.

Custom orthotics are made with the help of a plaster cast. When the foot or feet are cast, mechanical issue are assessed and an orthotic is made to support the heel and arch. Padding may be added to the device to help reduce your discomfort. You should know that custom orthotics are more expensive than ones you can purchase from your local pharmacy. They can be several hundred dollars and sometimes 10 times more than general orthotic devices.

Try Tape Strapping

You will need a great deal of heel support if you have a plantar fasciitis condition. The support is needed to reduce heel stress and to allow the tissues across the heel to heal properly. Some support can be provided by the orthotic itself, but the heel can still become stressed as the heel strikes the ground. This can cause further pain and discomfort. 

You can keep the heel stable and supported by using a tape strapping technique. Tape strapping is the process of placing athletic or medical tape across the heel and the bottom of the foot. The technique requires you to place the tape across the middle part of the sole as well as along the outside part of the heel. You will need to learn how to apply the tape correctly, so speak with your podiatrist about this. Physical therapists and sports medicine professionals, like Citrus Chiropractic Group, can also assist with this.