Friday, July 4, 2014

How To Relieve Foot Pain By Using Insoles For Flat Feet

By Rosella Campbell


Podiatrists agree that the most common problem that they have to deal with is painful feet that are almost always caused by the wearing of the wrong type of shoe. Another very common condition is fallen arches. People suffering from this condition have no instep, or arch. This is the part of the foot that is raised when standing up. In many cases insoles for flat feet can remedy the situation.

Fallen arches can be the cause of a range of symptoms. Some sufferers experience constant pain but most sufferers experience at least some pain when they are forced to stand for extended periods of time. Standing for long periods can also cause intense pain in the lower back region. The swelling of the inside of the ankles is also a common complaint. The condition makes it difficult to for sufferers to stand on their toes.

The bad news is that this condition cannot be cured, not even by means of surgery. Podiatrists commonly advise that sufferers wear special inserts in their shoes. These inserts are specially designed to support the arches. Most patients find that these devices relieve most of the symptoms. In special cases, for example where the shape of the foot is awkward, custom made soles can be ordered.

Even if the condition cannot be cured a lot can be done to lessen the pain and discomfort. Sufferers are encouraged to perform a variety of exercises that are all designed to strengthen the ligaments and muscles of the foot. This includes running on the toes as long as possible and stretching the toes apart from each other in several repetitions. Sufferers are also advised to walk barefoot as often as possible.

There have been rare cases where surgery has been tried but even highly experienced surgeons will only attempt it as a last resort. Reputable podiatrists shun this procedure and say that it is both too risky and dangerous. After making an incision on the side of the foot a plastic insert is put in the bones of the ankle. However, if this fails the patient will experience lifelong pain and discomfort.

There are many reasons why the arches drop. Some people are born that way and the arches simply never develop. Many older people develop the condition because the tendons along the ankles weakened. The cause can also be physical injuries that cause the tendons to become inflamed. Obese people and those suffering from arthritis are very likely to develop dropped arches.

Unless somebody has suffered from dropped arches since birth, steps can be taken to prevent it from happening later on in life. One of the most important steps is to maintain a healthy weight. It is also vital to wear shoes that fit properly. Those participating in sport should wear the shoes that have been designed for that sport. Women should limit the number of times they wear high heels.

Wearing special shoe inserts designed to support the arches is risk free and is even beneficial for those not suffering from dropped arches. These inserts are economical because the can be transferred between different pairs of shoes. Pain and discomfort can be avoided by performing special exercises regularly and by avoiding situations where it is necessary to stand for long periods.




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