Types of Orthotics to Soothe Heel Spurs

Heel pain affects more than 2 million people a year and 10 percent of all runners. Many people who stand on their feet at work know that heel pain can be a crippling debilitation. Plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the tissue that covers the bottom of the foot, is the number one cause of heel pain. Luckily, there are several types of foot orthotics made to combat heel problems and greatly increase quality of life, including five that can soothe heel spurs and get runners jogging to recovery.

Over-the-Counter Orthotics

• Over-the-counter orthotics provide arch support and heel cushioning. They can be purchased at pharmacies and shoe stores, and from durable medical equipment providers. Spenco orthotics, Superfeet insoles and Acor arch supports are three examples.

Custom Orthotics

• Custom orthotics are fabricated by qualified health professionals and require a prescription from a physician. Podiatrists, certified pedorthists (C-peds) and physical therapists are qualified to fabricate custom orthotics. These types of orthotics reduce pain symptoms by stopping pathologic functions of the feet.

Heel Spur Orthotics

• These orthotics have a gel cushion or an accommodative area for heel spurs (sharp, bony prominences that form under the heel). They can be purchased over the counter or custom-made by a qualified health-care provider.

Dress Orthotics

• Orthotics made for dress shoes are called dress orthotics, Slimthotics or DressThotics. They can be purchased through a qualified health-care provider and relieve pain by supporting the arch and cushioning the heel.

Night Splints

• Night splints are soft-fabric boots that are worn at night and stretch the fascia while you are sleeping. This progressive stretch makes heel tissue limber after waking and relieves heel pain throughout the day.