How Teachers Can Treat Heel Pain from a Concord NC Podiatrist

Students aren’t the only ones heading back to school. Teachers are also getting into the swing of things this September, and as they do so they typically run into a host of problems, such as foot and heel pain. Since most teachers stand for at least 4 to 6 hours per day, they are at high risk for heel pain, sesamoiditis, plantar fasciitis, and more. In today’s Concord NC podiatry blog, we explain some of the most common foot issues that affect teachers, and how to treat them.

Teachers and Heel Pain (Plantar Fasciitis)

One of the most common ailments our podiatrists treat in teachers is heel pain. Heel pain can be caused by many factors, but the most frequent diagnosis is usually plantar fasciitis. This is an injury to the plantar fascia, a broad band of connective tissue running from the heel bone to the base of the toes. The plantar fascia supports the arch of the foot, preventing it from flattening during standing and walking. Those with flat feet or high arches can easily strain their plantar fascia through prolonged standing. This persistent strain may eventually lead to injury, inflammation, and heal pain.

Podiatrists usually treat this painful condition by prescribing custom orthotics, which reduce the tension on the plantar fascia. Podiatrists can also perform trigger point release of the muscles and joint mobilizations, and recommend some stretching exercises to relieve the heel pain. If you think you suffer from this condition, contact our Concord NC podiatrist today to set up an appointment.

Teachers and Toe Pain (Sesamoiditis)

Sesamoiditis is another condition commonly experienced by teachers. Underneath the big toe joint, there are two small bones, called sesamoid bones, which serve to stabilize the big toe as we propel ourselves forward with each step. When excessive pressure is placed under the ball of the foot, the sesamoid bones can become damaged and inflamed, causing sesamoiditis. and can also be aggravated by ill-fitting shoes and high heels. Certain foot types are more prone to developing sesamoiditis than others. Those with bunions, high arches, or flat feet, are at high risk for the condition.

If you believe you suffer from sesamoiditis, a podiatrist can assess your foot structure, walking gait, and running gait to ensure this is the case. We can then manage the condition with custom insoles and padding which take pressure off the big toe area.

Teachers and Foot Arch Pain (Posterior Tibialis Tendon Dysfunction)

Posterior Tibialis Tendon Dysfunction, or PTTD, is a condition affecting the main tendon that holds up the arch of the foot. This tendon, called the posterior tibialis tendon, originates from the inner shin bone and inserts into the navicular bone. PTTD occurs when with long hours of standing and walking cause the tendon to weaken and become inflamed. Symptoms include pain and swelling at the back of the inner ankle bone; progressive flattening of the foot arch; and turning out of the toes.

If you believe you suffer from PTTD, it is important to make an appointment with a podiatrist quickly, as the condition can quickly become worse. Treatment includes using insoles to accommodate the tendon, taping, stretching, and strengthening exercises.

Concord NC Teachers: Visit Ryan Foot & Ankle Today!

The podiatrists at Ryan Foot & Ankle Clinic are committed to help our teachers find comfort and relief this school year. If you are experiencing foot pain from prolonged standing, call us today to schedule an appointment.