Condition Name
Overview
Your first visit to any OKAPED office when you are booked in for a Pedorthic assessment begins with a 1 hr initial assessment. It is comprised to two major components. The biomechanical exam and the gait analysis. During this initial appointment we will also be reviewing your footwear so please bring in your most commonly used pairs for work, leisure and sports.
Symptoms & Cause
Pain in the foot can be due to a problem in any part of the foot. Bones, ligaments, tendons, muscles, fascia, toenail beds, nerves, blood vessels, or skin can be the source of foot pain. The cause of foot pain can be narrowed down by location and by considering some of the most common causes of foot pain.
Diagnosis & Treatment
Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of heel pain. The plantar fascia, a band of tough tissue connecting the heel bone to the toes, becomes irritated or inflamed. Heel pain which is often worst in the morning when getting out of bed or getting up from rest, is the most common symptom. Arch pain may also be present in some individuals.
Treatment for plantar fasciitis includes:
- Rest / activity modification
- Calf and foot muscle stretches and exercises
- Medication recommended by your physician
- Shoes with a good shank and a cushioned sole
- Arch supports or if required custom foot orthotics
- Tape for support or pain relief such as Kinesio tape
- Physiotherapy
Preparing for an Appointment
Heel spurs are abnormal growths of bone on the bottom of the heel bone that may be caused by an abnormal gait, posture or walking, inappropriate shoes, or certain activities. Spurs may cause foot pain while walking or standing. Although many people may have heel spurs, only a few these people will present with foot pain. Heel spurs can occur in people with plantar fasciitis, but they do not cause plantar fasciitis. People with flat feet or high arches are more likely to have foot pain from heel spurs