Plantar fasciitis has a reputation for hanging around for months at a time if not properly addressed. Even a mild case of arch or heel pain should be attacked aggressively. Finding a solution for arch and heel pain is no doubt tops on your list of things to do.
According some people’s testimonials, being barefoot will provide you with some initial level of plantar fasciitis relief. In fact, many proponents say barefoot running say it cures plantar fasciitis pain because it allows the arch to stretch out and strengthen itself. But there have not been any scientific studies that have monitored the effectiveness of barefoot running as a possible treatment for plantar fasciitis.
Instead, most orthopedic and podiatric specialists recommend NEVER going barefoot. They say there is no substitution for a good, supportive shoe to help your arch heal itself. They don’t mean ordinary walking shoes that are comfortable, but not designed to correct improper walking gait. Instead, they recommend using shoes with good arch and foot support. The shoes should stabilize improper walking or running, with the right amount of cushion.
So while the barefoot versus proper shoe debate for plantar fasciitis continues, talk to your podiatrist to address your particular situation and lifestyle. But if you wake up with morning stabbing pain in your heel and arch, the solution is universally accepted: you need a night splint. Podiatrists say that a night splint pre-stretches your plantar fascia so that in the morning, the pain is avoided. In particular, the Stretch-Away Plantar Fasciitis Night Brace is the most comfortable way to achieve this. It’s also inexpensive and easy to use, so you wake up and take your first steps without the pain and discomfort.
www.StretchAway-PlantarFasciitis.com
