Plantar fasciitis: There’s an affordable way to manage the pain

Having sore and aching feet may not seem like a big health issue, but it sure is debilitating and in simple terms – down right annoying.

Plantar fasciitis is a common problem Baby Boomers have to deal with and in some cases it can stop people from partaking in the activities they love, such as getting out in nature for a walk or even just heading to the shops.

The condition refers to the pain at the bottom of the foot, on the heel and around the arch of the foot. The plantar fascia is a thick, fibrous band that connects the heel to the toes and when it becomes inflamed, typically through overuse, over-stretching or not being supported correctly, it can cause terrible and unbearable pain.

Although we’re encouraged to exercise, go for walks and ensure we’re not sedentary for too long, it’s stress on the heel bone through all of this that can lead to the development of plantar fasciitis, as can wearing certain footwear and just general ageing – hence why it’s so common in older people.

But, there’s good news. You can use certain products and items to help relieve this pain and get on with your life again – without spending big bucks! Plantar fasciitis socks are one of those things. The compression feature in the socks helps to boost circulation, reduce swelling and speed up the recovery of tired and aching feet.

You can wear them under socks and shoes for extra support during the day, while they’re also comfy to wear overnight. And the socks have produced great results in people suffering from the condition. In fact, about 80 per cent of plantar fasciitis cases are said to improve within six months of using treatments such as the socks.

If you are diabetic or suffer from poor circulation you should consult a doctor before using them though, and they shouldn’t be worn on broken or injured skin. But, you’ll be happy to know that it will cost you just $32.50 for a pair of these socks from Starts at 60’s own Marketplace.

For more complex and chronic problems, osteopaths can perform soft tissue work and osteopathic treatment to the plantar fascia and surrounding structures. Or, there’s also shock wave therapy when conservative management fails. It works by sending shock wave pulses through the plantar fascia to stimulate the healing process. PRP injections – which sees plasma-rich platelets injected into the plantar fascia – can also stimulate the healing process.

But, if your condition hasn’t gotten to a chronic stage and you’re just needing some relief from the pain, the plantar fasciitis socks could be a great help. It’s an easy, effective and affordable option.

IMPORTANT LEGAL INFO This article is of a general nature and FYI only, because it doesn’t take into account your personal health requirements or existing medical conditions. That means it’s not personalised health advice and shouldn’t be relied upon as if it is. Before making a health-related decision, you should work out if the info is appropriate for your situation and get professional medical advice.