Foot pain

[bobbie22]

I have a really bad pain under my foot. Chiropodist says it's Plantar Faciitis ? spelling. Anyway he gave me exercises which have not worked, in fact, the pain is so bad I can hardly walk. Any suggestions?

[cazzz1975]

I found wearing a supportive shoe helpful, something that cushions your sole, my shoe of choice was unfortunatly a pair of crocs ;)

[slinkycat]

My mother-in-law had exactly the same problem, we got her some shoe inserts from Cosyfeet (on the advice of a friend with the same condition) she was sceptical, but when she tried them she couldn't believe the improvement they made to her mobility.
It was a while back but I think they were neoprene, and under £20.

[Tefler]

When my plantar fasciitis was at its peak, I used neopropene heel inserts, which I bought from Boots. They weren't expensive, but helped a lot. Ibuprofen combined with paracetamol was prescribed by my doctor, but didn't seem to touch the pain. In fact, the only thing that did work was the stretching exercise. They are:
- Stand with your toes on a step and push down with your heels (don't 'bounce').
- stand with your feet a foot or so away from a wall. Keeping the feet flat on the floor, and digging the heels in, lean on the wall and push away from it.
- roll a hard object (I used a wooden massager) under the foot, where it's painful.

Apparently, the first two help to strengthen the muscles supporting the ankle and this, in turn, helps the ligament (if ligament it is).

In short, though, I think it was time and plenty of rest that helped most. It was definitely a nuisance not being able to go to the gym, as I've now got out of the routine. I did try swimming, but strangely that was just as painful as walking and using the cross trainer.

[Smowball]

I have exactly the same thing, it can be pure agony