The results of a recent study conducted by the American Podiatric Medical Association concluded that a staggering 73 percent of people polled revealed that they are living with foot pain. Why have foot ailments and pain become so commonplace in the doctor's office? Most patients have issues with their feet because of: the kind of footwear they use, what activities they participate in, or the way their feet are formed. Usage of ill-fitting shoes can turn minor problems into major ones. Athletes are another group who are highly-affected by foot problems. Factors such as excessive pronation , fallen arches, and insufficient support Genetics can contribute to foot-related issues because they dictate how a person's feet are formed. This can raise the risk of someone having pain issues with their feet.

The Mechanics of the Foot

Flat feet can cause an inward rolling of the feet which can make activities painful. The foot handles bearing the weight of the body and providing balance and stability. The parts of the foot that help to keep the foot in harmony with the body include the arch, heel, tarsals and meta-tarsals staggering. The arch gives tremendous strength and flexibility so the foot remains stable. Pain can result from raised arches or abnormally-low arches, which can cause the foot to rotate abnormally. With high arches, the weight of the body is abnormally emphasized on the outer perimeter of the foot , a condition known as over-supination. On the other hand, excessive pronation happens with fallen arches because the weight of the body is concentrated on the inside of the foot, causing the ankles to roll inward .

Serious Foot Issues Occur with Flat Feet

A quick way to see if fallen arches or high arches are an issue is to go outside and stand on an area where a foot impression can be made, such as on cement. Sink one of the feet in cool water and then stand normally for a few seconds. Then, lift the foot off the ground and see the print that is left by the foot. A flat foot with feet overpronation will leave a full mark where the entire foot has touched the ground. A high arch will leave just a part of the ball of the foot's, outside portion, and the heel. Either of these arch conditions can cause painful spurs of bone in the heel or plantar fasciitis treatment because the foot experiences repeated and excessive pressure in places it is not intended to handle.

Orthotics Provide Effective Relief for Plantar Fasciitis Treatment

Persons with pain caused by fallen arches, heel spurs, or who need plantar fasciitis treatment can get relief by using orthotics in their shoes. They offer the needed support to remedy the areas in the arch that have been weakened. They also offer cushioning in areas where repeated and excessive there is excess pressure on the foot in the heel and ball areas. Orthotics are available in an array of sizes and types and are designed to meet the needs of athletes, high-heel wearers, and everyone in between.