Plantar fasciitis can even happen to middle-aged people, but it is more common for seniors older than 65. This condition can be described as chronic heel pain. The discomfort that comes with this inflammation-related condition makes it hard for seniors to lead normal lives. Because of this, it is essential for the elderly to find ways to relieve plantar fasciitis.
How to Help Older Adults Treat Plantar Fasciitis
Wear Orthotic Devices
One of the most practical ways to ease the pain from this condition is to invest in orthotic devices. You don’t need to buy the expensive ones that will set you back a couple hundred dollars. The cheap ones that fit in all shoes will do the trick. Elderly patients with plantar fasciitis should look to add extra cushion in the heel area and give their arches more support.
Use Foam Rollers
This type of physical therapy has the purpose of stretching and stimulating soft tissue. If your loved one doesn’t own a foam roller, they could use a golf ball or even a frozen bottle of water. Only ten minutes a day should be enough to lower the heel pain.
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Visit a Chiropractor
Plantar fasciitis can be caused by almost any imbalance in the musculoskeletal system. Older adults that have this condition shouldn’t be shy to schedule a visit to the chiropractor. A chiropractor can discover and treat issues of the hip, back, shoulder, or neck. Addressing pain in these areas can prevent problems getting to your heels.
Strengthen and Loosen the Calves
With old age, calf muscles become tighter and weaker, and sometimes this is the reason for heel pain. With weak and tightened calves, the heel starts getting less support. The best way to prevent this is to exercise calf muscles at least twice a week. The goal of this workout should be to strengthen and loosen the calves.
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