What Doctors Don't Tell YouThis common condition causes pain under the heel of the foot. The painful area is usually located about 5 cm (2 inches) from the back of the heel on the sole of the foot. Does anyone have any information about or experience with this? A seasoned McTimoney practitioner says he’s been able to successfully treat this condition, so find a practitioner in your area. A physiotherapist says she normally prescribes Fomthotic insoles, and this seems to work. They can be accessed through Medipost (tel: 01305 760750) or send email to info@medipost.co.uk, though it’s best to be fitted by a physiotherapist if possible. DFO (UK) sells silicone gel heel cups (approximately £22 per pair) that are helpful as well: info@dreamyfeet.co.uk. Do plenty of foot-strengthening exercises, like drawing out the letters of the alphabet with your foot or trying to grab a towel with your toes and drag it under your foot (your physiotherapist will recommend these). Alternatively, get supportive, customised orthotics from a podiatrist. Stretch and massage the foot regularly (try standing up and gently rolling over a tennis ball or a chilled can of drink for 10-15 minutes 2 or 3 times a day) and also the calf, as tight calves can pull on the tendons in your foot. You can find other calf stretches at http://www.backpainbooks.com. There is also a boot-like brace that your doctor can prescribe to keep your foot at a 90-degree angle while you sleep. Always wear supportive shoes, such as Earth shoes, Nike Free or New Balance trainers (with more individually-tailored sizes). And one man was able to cure his plantar fascitis through glucosamine supplements alone! If all else fails, there is a plantar fascia tendon release, in which small incisions are made into the tendon to allow it to lengthen. You are off your foot entirely for about 3 days and then there’s a 3-month recovery period before you can walk for more than 15 minutes at a time.
Daniel Redwood DC
Tom Ferguson MD
