Plantar fascia pain is the most common foot complaint we see as physiotherapists. The pain associated with plantar fasciitis is typically around the heel, but can be in other parts of the foot sole. The pain is often worse in the morning and for the first few steps after being seated for some time.
Do you need Orthotics for Foot Pain?
Plantar foot pain can vary from mild to very debilitating, and often our patients report that the symptoms have been present for quite some time. The most common question we get asked by patients in our Birkdale Physiotherapy Clinic with plantar fasciitis is, “Do I need to see a podiatrist for orthotics”?
Our answer, probably not. Research has shown no difference in effectiveness between the prescription of prefabricated orthoses vs custom-made orthotics (Pfeffer et. al, 1999). Custom foot orthoses may not reduce foot pain after 2-3 months or 1 year, compared to non-custom foot orthoses (Hawke F, Burns J, et al, 2008).
The current evidence suggests that expensive custom-made orthotics are generally no more effective than affordable non-customised ones.
To make sure we make the right prescription, our physiotherapists at Essential Health Physiotherapy Birkdale will tape your foot to simulate what an orthotic might do before prescribing one. Some clients might feel the pain has reduced, and the stimulation helps improve symptoms. From your response to the arch support and correction, we could then make a clinical decision. We call this a treatment direction test, which helps develop a treatment plan. Treatment might include footwear advice, exercises to load and strengthen the foot, and arch support in the form of orthotics (if it is beneficial or necessary for you).
Physiotherapy– your First Point of Call for heel pain or Plantar fasciitis
Be aware of the big claims made on TV about arch support and how they are “good” for your feet. We have heard of patients spending up to $1500 on arch supports at a retail shop that are no more effective than a $60 pair at our clinic. You might not only save a reasonable amount of money, but also get a solution that works towards long-term relief rather than a temporary fix.
Get in touch with your Local Birkdale Physiotherapists at 07 3822 8879 to get answers about your Foot Pain.
References
1. Pfeffer G, Bacchetti P, Deland J, et al. Comparison of Custom and Prefabricated Orthoses in the Initial Treatment of Proximal Plantar Fasciitis. Foot & Ankle International. 1999;20(4):214-221. doi:10.1177/107110079902000402
2. Hawke F, Burns J, et al. Custom-made foot orthoses for the treatment of foot pain. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2008;16:CD006801.
Check our Previous Blogs
- 3 Essential Exercises for Strength and Flexibility
- Thinking of Having a Baby? A Guide to Preconception Health
- Exercise Physiologist vs. Physiotherapist vs. Personal Trainers
- Affordable solution before expensive custom orthotics for Foot Pain
- Dry Needling: An Effective Solution for Chronic Pain and Injury
