Sore Feet in the Morning......... - Page 2

Rustic23 · 01-14-2008, 05:24 PM

Rich,
Are you going to send him a bill?

**Rich_in_Tampa** · 01-14-2008, 05:55 PM

Excerpts from a sound patient handout (my edits as noted). For general interest, not medical advice for anyone, especially FD whose bill is already in the mail:

Patient information: Heel pain due to plantar fasciitis
Robert P Sheon, MD
... DEFINITION — Plantar fasciitis is caused by strain of the ligaments of the foot in an area called the plantar fascia ... This is a thick, pearly white tissue with long fibers that attach to the skin ...

Jumping or prolonged standing often causes strain on the plantar fascia, although plantar fasciitis can occur in other situations as well. The outcome for people with plantar fasciitis is generally good, with approximately 80 percent of people having no pain within one year.

SYMPTOMS — The major symptom of plantar fasciitis is pain beneath the heel and on the sole of the foot. The pain is often worst when stepping onto the foot, particularly when first getting out of bed or getting up after being seated for some time.

RISK FACTORS —...
Factors that increase the risk include:

Long-distance running, especially during intensive training
Poorly fitted shoes
Obesity
Standing for long periods of time
Dancing, especially ballet and aerobic dance
Repeated squatting or standing on the toes
Use of a trampoline

......
TREATMENT
Conservative treatment — Plantar fasciitis is usually treated conservatively. Conservative treatment is not guaranteed to eliminate plantar fasciitis in all cases, although it usually helps to decrease pain.
Patients who are overweight or have flat feet may decide to be treated for these conditions first. Treatment may also include the following:
Rest — Limiting athletic activities and getting extra rest for up to two weeks can help the inflammation to subside. Excessive heel impact from jumping, walking, and use of a trampoline should be avoided. A complete lack of physical activity, though, can lead to stiffening and recurrence of pain.
Icing — applying ice to the area for 20 minutes up to four times daily can relieve Pain. Ice and massage may also be used prior to exercise.
Exercise — Exercise is an important part of therapy. ...
Ibuprofen — A clinician may recommend a two to three week course of a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug such as ibuprofen or naproxen to reduce swelling and relieve pain. ...

Protective footwear — Athletic shoes, arch supporting shoes (particularly those with an extra-long counter, which is the firm part of the shoe that surrounds the heel), or shoes with rigid shanks (usually a metal insert into the sole of the shoe) are helpful. Cushion-soled shoes with gel pad inserts or heel cups can provide temporary pain relief. Appropriate shoes and accessories can be found in stores featuring work shoes or "orthopedic shoes."

Splints can be worn overnight to position the foot and heel provide pain relief and a gentle stretch. These splints can usually be purchased in pharmacies that carry orthopedic supplies.
...
...
Other modes of treatment — If these noninvasive measures fail to improve the pain within two to three weeks, a healthcare provider may recommend one of the following treatments:

Steroid (cortisone) injection — An injection of a steroid medication may be given into the affected tissue. Many clinicians limit the number of times they will give this type of injection because repeated injections may weaken the tissues of the sole of the foot. In addition, each injection carries a small risk of causing infection ...

Casting — Another option is a short walking cast, which begins at the calf and covers the ankle and foot up to the toes.

...

Shock wave therapy — Some clinicians recommend shock wave therapy (a form of ultrasound), which provides a burst of energy to the sole of the foot. The treatment is initially painful, and has not been proven to be more effective than sham treatment (treatment with a very low, non-therapeutic dose of ultrasound).
...

cute fuzzy bunny · 01-14-2008, 06:08 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by FinanceDude

I'm going to try stretching my Achilles tendon every morning before I get out of bed.

Hah...found your problem. You need two of those.

FinanceDude · 01-18-2008, 09:11 AM

Update:

I saw my GP yesterday. She also said plantar facitis. Rich, feel free to send me a bill. Do you take United Healthcare insurance??

**Rich_in_Tampa** · 01-18-2008, 10:00 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by FinanceDude

Update:

I saw my GP yesterday. She also said plantar facitis. Rich, feel free to send me a bill. Do you take United Healthcare insurance??

Please send all payments to the Rich_in_Tampa Retirement Fund.

Hope the foot settles down fast.

frayne · 01-18-2008, 10:19 AM

Had the same problem years ago and spent about $500 for foot doctor and special inserts that didn't work worth a darn. Saw an infomercial on phase four orthodics and bought some for about $20. They hurt when I first started wearing them but I got use to them and now I swear by them, have them in all my shoes and no more foot pain, ever.

phase four orthotics, Medical, Special Needs, Health Beauty items on eBay.com

toofrugalformycat · 01-18-2008, 11:30 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by FinanceDude

Just wondering if Rich or someone could comment.

It has been going on for a couple months. I wake up with the bottom of my feet hurting.

Once I get up and around and moving, it feels fine. Next morning, same thing.

Thoughts? It happens whether I did physical activity or not............

That is how my plantar fasciitis was. Whatever you have, take it seriously.

The tricky thing was, the flareup often didn't happen until the next day, so if your activity varies day to day you have to keep a log to figure out what's causing the problems. Bicycling was one of the things that wrecked me. Who woulda thought a non-weight-bearing activity would do it?

FinanceDude · 01-18-2008, 01:48 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rich_in_Tampa

Please send all payments to the Rich_in_Tampa Retirement Fund.

Hope the foot settles down fast.

Funny, the sheet of exercises she gave me to do is identical to the stretches we did in college cross country.........

I'm on Alleve, icing it, wearing shoes with good arch supports, etc.........

FinanceDude · 01-18-2008, 01:51 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by toofrugalformycat

Bicycling was one of the things that wrecked me. Who woulda thought a non-weight-bearing activity would do it?

Well, depending on how you SLEEP, it can make the problem worse too...........

BTW, my GP is funny. After the physical, she looks at me and says: "You can lose 20 pounds my next year's exam, can't you"

Achiever51 · 01-18-2008, 02:32 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by frayne

Had the same problem years ago and spent about $500 for foot doctor and special inserts that didn't work worth a darn. Saw an infomercial on phase four orthodics and bought some for about $20. They hurt when I first started wearing them but I got use to them and now I swear by them, have them in all my shoes and no more foot pain, ever.

phase four orthotics, Medical, Special Needs, Health Beauty items on eBay.com

Same for me. Broke my foot about five years ago and have had problems ever since. Doc prescribed custom fitted orthotics, but they didn't fit in most of my shoes and were just very uncomfortable. Saw the infomercial and bought the Phase Four orthotics at the local pharmacy for about $20...they fit in all my shoes and after I got used to them no more foot pain!

redduck · 01-20-2008, 12:07 PM

Want2Retire's suggestion of gently stretching your toes towards your nose before getting out of bed was suggested to me by my podiatrist. (It's helpful). Actually, he suggested I put a band around my foot and then pull it towards me.

Other suggestions from the podiatrist:
1. Aleve

2. Freeze a bottle of water (plastic container) and then roll it under your foot for 5-15 minutes, 2-4 times a day. (After the first 10 seconds the shock of the cold wears off).

Insanity · 01-20-2008, 03:19 PM

I have problems with PF, too. Here are the things that I found:

First, shoes that fit. Most department stores carry "D" width shoes; if they have wide widths they are typically 4E. My feet, however are 8-2E size, and I'd been buying shoes that were either too wide or too narrow to fit well. Now I go to a specialty place and spend the extra money. Life is too short to save a few bucks on shoes and hurt every time I walk. I try to buy them on sale.

Oddly enough the shoes I have the most problem finding are for an industry that makes a big deal out of proper fit: hiking boots. I spend a long time looking, but then they last me three to five years, so I just bite the bullet and spend the money.

When I was first diagnosed I got specialized orthotics, which were uncomfortable to wear at first, but felt better over time and got me feet into reasonable shape. Now I buy "Sole" brand arch supports, which you heat up and form to match the bottom of your foot, and replace the factory insoles in each of my shoes.

Last, I do stretches every morning when I get up. It's my insurance against a variety of chronic problems that do show up in my back (left side tendon injuries at L2-3-4 from an old gymnastics injury), shoulder (adhesive capsulitis, likely from the same source or an old motorcycle injury), and feet (PF) if I don't take care of myself.

outtarentals · 01-25-2008, 08:08 PM

The best shoes for my PF are Earth Spirit from Walmart. Not every style - but the closed toe, open back works great or the plain pump. They're not the most stylish shoes, but they have really good arch support and when I wear them, I have no problem with PF. I could barely walk when I found them about 5 years ago. Good price too.

FlogBlogger · 01-27-2008, 05:51 PM

As a runner, I experience pain on the back and not the bottom of the heel, and therefore was diagnosed not as PF but as Achilles tendonitis. The night after running I'll wear a night splint and that does the trick.

Buckeye · 01-27-2008, 06:30 PM

I had it too until I lost 30 pounds. No issue since.

deserat · 01-28-2008, 04:49 PM

Yup - PF is what it sounds like - my husband is still dealing with this - very painful and takes awhile to heal - do what the doctors say on this one

FinanceDude · 01-29-2008, 10:05 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Buckeye

I had it too until I lost 30 pounds. No issue since.

Wish me luck, tomorrow is Wednesday Morning Weigh-ins on here...........

Bimmerbill · 01-31-2008, 06:37 PM

I saw the foot doc back in 01 or 02 and he told me I had PF. I would hate getting out of bed in the morning because of the pain.

Food Doc recommended some inserts which I still use today. Look up SPENCO hard arch supports. Gives arch support, which really helps.

RunningBum · 01-31-2008, 07:59 PM

Oh, the other thing I've heard is to not go barefoot, even around the house.

01-14-2008, 05:55 PM	#22
Rich_in_Tampa Moderator Join Date: Feb 2006 Location: Tampa Posts: 5,369	Excerpts from a sound patient handout (my edits as noted). For general interest, not medical advice for anyone, especially FD whose bill is already in the mail: Patient information: Heel pain due to plantar fasciitis Robert P Sheon, MD ... DEFINITION — Plantar fasciitis is caused by strain of the ligaments of the foot in an area called the plantar fascia ... This is a thick, pearly white tissue with long fibers that attach to the skin ... Jumping or prolonged standing often causes strain on the plantar fascia, although plantar fasciitis can occur in other situations as well. The outcome for people with plantar fasciitis is generally good, with approximately 80 percent of people having no pain within one year. SYMPTOMS — The major symptom of plantar fasciitis is pain beneath the heel and on the sole of the foot. The pain is often worst when stepping onto the foot, particularly when first getting out of bed or getting up after being seated for some time. RISK FACTORS —... Factors that increase the risk include: Long-distance running, especially during intensive training Poorly fitted shoes Obesity Standing for long periods of time Dancing, especially ballet and aerobic dance Repeated squatting or standing on the toes Use of a trampoline ...... TREATMENT Conservative treatment — Plantar fasciitis is usually treated conservatively. Conservative treatment is not guaranteed to eliminate plantar fasciitis in all cases, although it usually helps to decrease pain. Patients who are overweight or have flat feet may decide to be treated for these conditions first. Treatment may also include the following: Rest — Limiting athletic activities and getting extra rest for up to two weeks can help the inflammation to subside. Excessive heel impact from jumping, walking, and use of a trampoline should be avoided. A complete lack of physical activity, though, can lead to stiffening and recurrence of pain. Icing — applying ice to the area for 20 minutes up to four times daily can relieve Pain. Ice and massage may also be used prior to exercise. Exercise — Exercise is an important part of therapy. ... Ibuprofen — A clinician may recommend a two to three week course of a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug such as ibuprofen or naproxen to reduce swelling and relieve pain. ... Protective footwear — Athletic shoes, arch supporting shoes (particularly those with an extra-long counter, which is the firm part of the shoe that surrounds the heel), or shoes with rigid shanks (usually a metal insert into the sole of the shoe) are helpful. Cushion-soled shoes with gel pad inserts or heel cups can provide temporary pain relief. Appropriate shoes and accessories can be found in stores featuring work shoes or "orthopedic shoes." Splints can be worn overnight to position the foot and heel provide pain relief and a gentle stretch. These splints can usually be purchased in pharmacies that carry orthopedic supplies. ... ... Other modes of treatment — If these noninvasive measures fail to improve the pain within two to three weeks, a healthcare provider may recommend one of the following treatments: Steroid (cortisone) injection — An injection of a steroid medication may be given into the affected tissue. Many clinicians limit the number of times they will give this type of injection because repeated injections may weaken the tissues of the sole of the foot. In addition, each injection carries a small risk of causing infection ... Casting — Another option is a short walking cast, which begins at the calf and covers the ankle and foot up to the toes. ... Shock wave therapy — Some clinicians recommend shock wave therapy (a form of ultrasound), which provides a burst of energy to the sole of the foot. The treatment is initially painful, and has not been proven to be more effective than sham treatment (treatment with a very low, non-therapeutic dose of ultrasound). ... __________________ Rich Tampa, FL (10% retired) As if you didn't know..If the above message happens to contain medical content, it's NOT intended as advice, and may not be accurate, applicable or sufficient. Don't rely on it for any medical purpose whatsoever. Consult your own doctor for all medical advice.

01-18-2008, 09:11 AM	#24
FinanceDude Give me a museum and I'll fill it. (Picasso) Give me a forum ... Join Date: Aug 2006 Posts: 6,237	Update: I saw my GP yesterday. She also said plantar facitis. Rich, feel free to send me a bill. Do you take United Healthcare insurance?? __________________ Consult with your own advisor or representative. My thoughts should not be construed as investment advice. Past performance is no guarantee of future results (love that one).......:) My American Funds can Beat Up Your Vanguard Funds........:)

01-25-2008, 08:08 PM	#33
outtarentals Recycles dryer sheets Join Date: Mar 2007 Posts: 116	Sore Feet in the Morning.... The best shoes for my PF are Earth Spirit from Walmart. Not every style - but the closed toe, open back works great or the plain pump. They're not the most stylish shoes, but they have really good arch support and when I wear them, I have no problem with PF. I could barely walk when I found them about 5 years ago. Good price too.

01-27-2008, 05:51 PM	#34
FlogBlogger Recycles dryer sheets Join Date: Feb 2006 Posts: 101	As a runner, I experience pain on the back and not the bottom of the heel, and therefore was diagnosed not as PF but as Achilles tendonitis. The night after running I'll wear a night splint and that does the trick. __________________ There is never enough time, unless you're serving it. --Malcolm Forbes

01-28-2008, 04:49 PM	#36
deserat Recycles dryer sheets Join Date: Jul 2004 Posts: 394	Yup - PF is what it sounds like - my husband is still dealing with this - very painful and takes awhile to heal - do what the doctors say on this one __________________ Deserat aka Bridget

01-14-2008, 05:24 PM	#21
Rustic23 Full time employment: Posting here. Join Date: Dec 2005 Location: Lake Livingston, Tx Posts: 897	Rich, Are you going to send him a bill?

01-18-2008, 10:19 AM	#26
frayne Recycles dryer sheets Join Date: Oct 2002 Posts: 389	Had the same problem years ago and spent about $500 for foot doctor and special inserts that didn't work worth a darn. Saw an infomercial on phase four orthodics and bought some for about $20. They hurt when I first started wearing them but I got use to them and now I swear by them, have them in all my shoes and no more foot pain, ever. phase four orthotics, Medical, Special Needs, Health Beauty items on eBay.com

01-20-2008, 12:07 PM	#31
redduck Recycles dryer sheets Join Date: Mar 2005 Posts: 155	Want2Retire's suggestion of gently stretching your toes towards your nose before getting out of bed was suggested to me by my podiatrist. (It's helpful). Actually, he suggested I put a band around my foot and then pull it towards me. Other suggestions from the podiatrist: 1. Aleve 2. Freeze a bottle of water (plastic container) and then roll it under your foot for 5-15 minutes, 2-4 times a day. (After the first 10 seconds the shock of the cold wears off).

01-20-2008, 03:19 PM	#32
Insanity Recycles dryer sheets Join Date: Mar 2007 Posts: 126	I have problems with PF, too. Here are the things that I found: First, shoes that fit. Most department stores carry "D" width shoes; if they have wide widths they are typically 4E. My feet, however are 8-2E size, and I'd been buying shoes that were either too wide or too narrow to fit well. Now I go to a specialty place and spend the extra money. Life is too short to save a few bucks on shoes and hurt every time I walk. I try to buy them on sale. Oddly enough the shoes I have the most problem finding are for an industry that makes a big deal out of proper fit: hiking boots. I spend a long time looking, but then they last me three to five years, so I just bite the bullet and spend the money. When I was first diagnosed I got specialized orthotics, which were uncomfortable to wear at first, but felt better over time and got me feet into reasonable shape. Now I buy "Sole" brand arch supports, which you heat up and form to match the bottom of your foot, and replace the factory insoles in each of my shoes. Last, I do stretches every morning when I get up. It's my insurance against a variety of chronic problems that do show up in my back (left side tendon injuries at L2-3-4 from an old gymnastics injury), shoulder (adhesive capsulitis, likely from the same source or an old motorcycle injury), and feet (PF) if I don't take care of myself.

01-27-2008, 06:30 PM	#35
Buckeye Recycles dryer sheets Join Date: May 2006 Posts: 448	I had it too until I lost 30 pounds. No issue since.

01-31-2008, 06:37 PM	#38
Bimmerbill Recycles dryer sheets Join Date: Jan 2006 Posts: 407	I saw the foot doc back in 01 or 02 and he told me I had PF. I would hate getting out of bed in the morning because of the pain. Food Doc recommended some inserts which I still use today. Look up SPENCO hard arch supports. Gives arch support, which really helps.

01-31-2008, 07:59 PM	#39
RunningBum Full time employment: Posting here. Join Date: Jun 2007 Posts: 760	Oh, the other thing I've heard is to not go barefoot, even around the house.