YOUR FOOT DILEMMAS SORTED!

Early intervention is key to fixing pain

- Amber Bramble.

Our feet don't always get the credit they deserve, but they perform a pretty amazing job of carrying and supporting us through the day. For that reason it's important to give them the attention and care that they deserve.

Along with choosing the right footwear (with added insoles for support when needed), it's also a good idea to see a podiatrist if you have any kind of persisting foot pain. Here are four common foot problems that many people experience.

PLANTAR FASCIITIS

This common condition is often characterised by a stabbing pain in the heel or arch of the foot, and it's often at its worst first thing in the morning.

Emily Smith, a sports podiatrist and founder of Emily Braidwood insoles, says this is caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia. "The plantar fascia is a thick, fibrous band that supports the arch of the foot," she explains.

Plantar fasciitis is generally caused by excessive or repetitive strain. "Poorly structured shoes and exercising too much, too soon are common contributing factors," says Emily.

THE SOLUTION

When it comes to footwear, Emily recommends "wearing enclosed, slightly elevated shoes with footbeds to support the plantar fascia".