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| Customised inner soles - my long-term solution to Plantar Fasciitis |
Dear all, let me share with you my PF journey. Hope it helps those of you or anyone around you who have this condition.
What is Plantar Fasciitis (PF)?
In very simple words, PF is the inflammation of the tissue that supports the arch of your foot. Read more here.
What are the symptoms of my PF?
I have frequent painful swelling on the bottom of my foot. It started on my left foot, and subsequently, happened to my right foot too. Usually, I'll leave them alone and they'll subside in a week or two. But on one occasion, it got worse. Until I literally couldn't bring myself to even step onto the ground as it was too painful. Went to the doctor's and was diagnosed with PF.
What caused my PF?
I was a very active person. I run, walk, cycle, dance, swim, and take the stairs frequently. One day, my favorite sports shoe was out of stock and is not in production anymore. The old ones were just so worn out that I have to buy new ones. I tried to find similar ones but they just don't fit well. This is when PF started to kick in. Wearing the new types of sport shoes gave me painful soles.
Other reasons that I suspect contributed to my PF are: ill-fitting insoles of new shoes, my short-long leg (yes, my right leg is almost one inch longer), standing for hours during cooking/preparation of food, heavy weight - carrying my son, groceries, etc.
Other reasons that I suspect contributed to my PF are: ill-fitting insoles of new shoes, my short-long leg (yes, my right leg is almost one inch longer), standing for hours during cooking/preparation of food, heavy weight - carrying my son, groceries, etc.
How did I overcome PF?
I bought customised inner soles for 300 dollars. They scan your sole using their machines and create moulded insoles that only fits you. It's very expensive but it's the only thing that works. I'll just wear them everyday at home until the pain goes away.
How did I live with PF?
As recommended by my doctor (please get advice from your doctor too), I do calf stretches every morning upon waking up to warm them up before I start my day.
I also wear the customised soles and rest my feet whenever PF strikes. I refrain from carrying heavy weights or exerting any large pressure on my soles. And I wear shoes with thicker soles which provides support and cushion. Shoes with very thin soles has no support and allows your feet to hit the ground with full force at every step you take, which may cause or aggravate PF.
I also wear the customised soles and rest my feet whenever PF strikes. I refrain from carrying heavy weights or exerting any large pressure on my soles. And I wear shoes with thicker soles which provides support and cushion. Shoes with very thin soles has no support and allows your feet to hit the ground with full force at every step you take, which may cause or aggravate PF.
Tip: Do not simply throw away your old shoes. Keep the inner soles and replace them in your new shoes if possible. They'll fit like a glove.