Bay Area Fashionista

Panter Fasciitis relief from top left: green balls / sandals with arch support / foot roller kit / hidden arches / over the counter orthotics / arch support compression sleeve /

If you have been following along the past two years, you know I went from a hip injury to planter fasciitis. Ugh. Unfortunately, the planter fasciitis has decided to stay awhile, which means I need to constantly manage my pain and not get too confident that everything is over.

In late April, early May, I went on two quick trips and did a lot of walking. My foot seemed fine, so I left my orthotics at home. Big mistake. It is now June, and my foot is still sore. I need to undo the damage I did from not wearing proper arch support over a month ago. Don’t do what I did. If your doctor gave you orthotics, wear them!

If you have not seen a doctor yet, then you might be wondering what orthotics are. They are specially made shoe inserts you can use inside your sneakers to replace the soles the sneakers came with. The orthotics have been specially made to fit your exact foot, so they are far superior then anything you purchase over the counter. This also means they are quite expensive and if your insurance is like mine, they are not covered. The out-of-pocket expense was well over six hundred dollars for mine.

Before treating any ailment, you should always see a doctor. This post does not replace visiting a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. I am not a medical professional, so what I am about to write is from my experience only and may not be beneficial to you. If you have seen a doctor and know that some of these treatments will help you, then read on!

Orthotics: We just went over orthotics. If your doctor recommended them and they are too expensive, you can try using the over-the-counter inserts. They are a fraction of the price and should provide some relief. Also, if you live near a running shop such as Road Runner Sports in Campbell, they can mold inserts for you to fit your foot; also for a fraction of the cost of orthotics. Just know, medical orthotics are always the best option.

Arch support compression sleeve: This is a magical product! I wear these with flat shoes and when I do barefoot exercises such as Pilates or yoga. I absolutely love these and they are a total game changer. I can exercise pain free when attending barefoot classes! Yoga is great too because there are stretches which help relieve planter fasciitis plain. So that makes these little sleeves even more important. I cannot live without them! Love!

Roller balls: These little lacrosse balls are great for rolling along the tendon to relieve inflammation and pain. Be sure to consult your doctor before using one, and make sure they tell you how to properly use one. I also love this roller ball kit with different types of balls for relieving pain. Again, speak with your doctor before use.

Birkenstocks: These are the most amazing shoes. I have a pair I wear solely as slippers around the house so the soles stay clean. I also have an outdoor pair. These are perfect for days when you want to wear sandals but also need your arch support. I recommend sticking to the suede because they are more comfortable than the leather; although the suede does get dirtier faster. Just a heads-up.

Well, that’s it! You can also ice your foot as directed by your doctor. I find these products help me relieve pain in my daily life, so hopefully they can help you too! Always check with your doctor, just in case you have a serious tear or other injury which is acting like planter fasciitis but is something else.

Thanks for stopping by!

XOXO
Cathy