5-step process to pain relief
Tips for happy feet
Powerstep orthotics are designed to relieve and even prevent pain. But, if you’ve been experiencing foot pain for an extended period when you first begin using Powerstep orthotics, you may need to take a few extra steps to completely eradicate your foot problems. Dr. Appel, creator of Powerstep orthotics, recommends a 5-step plan for total pain relief.
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Buy shoes that provide good, solid support. When purchasing shoes, look for styles that fit well and are rigid on the sides of the heel. It’s also preferable to wear shoes that tie rather than shoes that slip-on, so you can get a closer fit by tying shoes tightly.
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Use Powerstep orthotics for excellent arch support and heel stability. Most shoes do not provide proper arch support or heel stability. These are two of the most common causes of foot pain. Using Powerstep orthotics can help address these issues and relieve foot pain or prevent it altogether!
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Minimize the time you walk barefoot, or without any support. Walking barefoot or in unsupportive footwear such as flip flops or high heels can cause significant damage to the muscles in the foot over time and cause numerous problems. Try to wear these kinds of shoes only when necessary, and only if you will be on your feet for a minimal amount of time.
If you do need to be on your feet in professional style shoes, like high heels or men’s business shoes, our Powerstep ¾ length Slim Tech product can be utilized to minimize foot discomfort.
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Use OTC anti-inflammatory medications or an ice massage to help reduce muscle inflammation in the foot. If you have pain in your feet before you first start using Powerstep orthotics, or if you over-exert the foot and feel soreness or pain, taking common over-the-counter medicines such as Ibuprofen (like Advil®, Motrin ®, Nuprin®) can help reduce inflammation of the foot muscles. You can also try giving your feet an ice massage; one easy way to do this is to freeze a paper cup filled with water, then peel the top of the cup off to expose the ice. Rub over the feet for 10-15 minutes, 2-3 times a day to relieve pain.
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Loosen foot and leg muscles with this exercise. Stand about 2 feet from a wall and place your toes against the wall 3-4 inches from the floor, so your foot is on an angle. Slowly move your knee toward the wall until you feel a slight stretch on the bottom of your foot and the back of your leg. Hold this stretch for 30 seconds and then repeat 4 times more for each foot, for a total of 5 repetitions.
