Can Orthotics Treat My Plantar Fasciitis?

Orthotics can effectively treat plantar fasciitis by changing how your foot moves and reducing stress on the inflamed tissue. 

At Cascade Foot & Ankle Center in Provo and Nephi, Utah, board-certified podiatric surgeon and wound care specialist Jared Clegg, DPM, FACFAS, and our team use custom orthotics as part of comprehensive plantar fasciitis treatment plans.

Orthotics work by redistributing pressure patterns

The plantar fascia is a band of fibrous, stretchy tissue that runs from the heel to the base of the toes. It connects the bones in your foot and forms the arch. Plantar fasciitis occurs when this band of ligament-like tissue becomes inflamed when stretched too far during activities like walking, running, or prolonged standing (especially on hard surfaces). 

Going barefoot frequently or wearing nonsupportive shoes like flip-flops can also inflame the plantar fascia.

 Orthotics are specialty shoe inserts that change where pressure hits your foot, reducing strain on the plantar fascia. When your arch gets proper support from custom orthotics molded to your feet, the plantar fascia doesn’t have to work as hard to maintain your foot’s shape. 

This allows the inflamed tissue to heal while you continue daily activities. The relief often starts within the first few weeks of consistent wear.

Custom orthotics outperform store-bought inserts for plantar fasciitis

Over-the-counter (OTC) arch supports provide general cushioning but can’t address your specific foot mechanics. Custom orthotics are made from a precise mold of your feet, capturing exactly how your arches collapse and where pressure concentrates.

Dr. Clegg creates orthotics that target your particular problem areas. For plantar fasciitis, this might mean extra support under your arch, specific heel cushioning, or adjustments to how your foot rolls during each step. These precise modifications aren’t possible with generic inserts you can buy at the store.

The materials in custom orthotics also last longer than drugstore options. While foam inserts compress and lose support within months, custom orthotics maintain their shape for years with proper care.

Different orthotic designs treat different plantar fasciitis patterns

The type of orthotic that works best depends on what’s causing your plantar fasciitis and how your feet move. Dr. Clegg evaluates your walking pattern and foot structure to determine which design will give you the most relief.

Rigid orthotics control excessive foot motion

Rigid orthotics work well for people whose plantar fasciitis stems from excessive foot motion during walking. These firmer devices control how much your foot flattens and twists, preventing the plantar fascia from stretching beyond its normal range.

Semi-rigid orthotics balance support with comfort

Semi-rigid orthotics combine motion control with cushioning. These help patients who need arch support but also have heel pain that benefits from shock absorption. The flexibility allows for some natural foot movement while still providing structure.

Accommodative orthotics prioritize pressure relief

Accommodative orthotics focus primarily on cushioning and pressure relief. These work best for patients whose plantar fasciitis developed from standing on hard surfaces or who have additional foot conditions that make rigid support uncomfortable.

Orthotics must be part of comprehensive treatment

While orthotics effectively reduce plantar fasciitis pain, they work even better when combined with other treatments. Watch for these signs that your orthotic treatment plan is working:

• Morning heel pain becomes less sharp and frequent
• You can walk longer distances before discomfort starts
• The stabbing sensation when standing after sitting decreases
• Foot fatigue at the end of the day improves
• You need less pain medication to stay comfortable

Stretching exercises help maintain flexibility in the plantar fascia and surrounding muscles. Physical therapy can address movement patterns that contribute to the condition. Anti-inflammatory medications can reduce pain, as orthotics address the underlying mechanical problems.

Some plantar fasciitis cases need surgery instead of orthotics

Chronic cases of plantar fasciitis sometimes require surgical intervention. When conservative treatments, including custom orthotics, haven’t provided relief after six months, surgery might be necessary.

Patients with severe heel spurs or significant plantar fascia tears may not respond fully to orthotic treatment alone. In these cases, surgical release of the plantar fascia can provide relief that orthotics can’t achieve alone.

Dr. Clegg evaluates your specific situation to determine whether orthotics alone will be sufficient or if additional treatments are necessary for optimal results.

Book plantar fasciitis treatment in Provo or Nephi, Utah

Custom orthotics can provide lasting relief from plantar fasciitis heel pain when properly designed for your foot structure and activity level. Call Cascade Foot & Ankle Center or schedule an appointment online to discuss whether orthotics are right for your plantar fasciitis treatment plan.