Thanks to modern lifestyle, we get very little time for regular exercise. However, not paying attention to our body often results in health ailments that may range from mild to severe. Heel pain is one such ailment that affects a large percentage of the population. It may start off as mild discomfort and pain in the soles and if you don’t pay attention to it, it may develop into a painful condition called plantar fasciitis.
While it is indeed a painful condition, it is possible to keep heel pain away with the help of some simple tips. Read on to know more.
- Wear comfortable footwear
We should stay away from fancy footwear that scores low on comfort. In general, your footwear should be designed in a way that it provides ample cushioning to your feet and allows a uniform distribution of your body weight. Footwear with thin and long heels or less foot support may look pleasing to the eye, but they are harmful to your feet.
- Use good-quality insoles
Insoles are meant for inserting in your regular footwear. They provide the right support and cushioning to your soles and prevent fatigue and pain. Regular use of insoles would not only help in preventing the development of pain in your feet but also in managing existing conditions like plantar fasciitis. There is a great variety of insoles available in the market, and you should choose one that is of good quality.
- Watch your weight
Most cases of chronic heel pain happen in people who are overweight. Therefore, managing your weight is an effective way to prevent heel pain. Make sure that you stay active and do regular exercise. Cutting down on processed food and sugars may also help in managing your weight. Seeking the help of a dietician might help in weight loss faster.
- Stretch your feet and legs often
Stretching your feet and legs in between other tasks during the day will improve blood circulation and help in managing heel pain. These stretches may include simple curling and uncurling of toes, rotating of feet clockwise and anticlockwise, and bending the feet forward and backward on the heel joint. These simple foot movements tremendously help in pain management.
- Avoid high-impact activities
While it is good to stay active, people suffering from plantar fasciitis or chronic heel pain must avoid high-impact exercises like running or jumping. Instead, they should choose low-impact exercises like swimming and cycling.
Pain in the soles or heels can be annoying because it hampers your daily activities. By keeping these five tips in mind, you will be able to prevent this pain. However, if your condition does not get better, you should meet your doctor and follow medical advice.