Upstep Answers
Our team answers your questions about the causes and treatment of various podiatric conditions, including plantar fasciitis, flat feet, foot pain, and the use of custom orthotics.
Recent Answers
Can Knee Arthritis Cause Calf Pain?
Knee osteoarthritis is a disorder in which cartilage in the knee breaks down or degenerates. Degeneration of the articular cartilage, the flexible, slippery substance that ordinarily shields bones from joint friction and impact, is the hallmark of knee osteoarthritis. » Find the right cycling shoe insoles for arch support Are Knee Pain and Calf Pain Related? Yes, calf pain and knee pain are usually linked to some degree. If you have arthritis, you may experience pain the radiates from the knee to the calf. Arthritic joint discomfort is primarily caused by inflammation. Leg discomfort from arthritis (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, infectious arthritis, gout, bursitis, and tendonitis) can affect one or more joints or other regions of the musculoskeletal system. » Are you an athlete suffering from knee arthritis? Check out the best insoles to relieve calf pain How Bad Knees Can Cause Calf Pain The most prevalent type of arthritis is osteoarthritis, which is characterized by stiff and achy joints. Muscle spasms and leg cramps are common symptoms of severe illness. Pain, stiffness, and swelling can occur as the cartilage around the joint breaks down. Arthritic joints can also be hot and stiff. A variety of knee disorders can cause strain on the muscles and tendons that go down the calf. A Baker's cyst, a consequence of knee arthritis, is a prevalent problem that can also be one of the conditions leading to calf pain. Legs, thighs, calves, hips, buttocks, and feet may experience discomfort. Aside from discomfort, other typical symptoms in the leg muscles include heaviness, numbness, or soreness. Rest is typically beneficial.
Asked 22 days ago
The Differences Between Memory Foam vs. Gel Insoles
There are many different reasons that you might need to purchase a pair of insoles for your shoes. Perhaps you are trying to deal with some foot pain, or maybe you just feel that you need some extra support. Regardless of your reasons, you will still have to decide which material you would like your insoles to be made from. That being said, is memory foam or gel better for insoles? Read on to find out. Memory Foam Insoles ProsMemory foam insoles beat all other materials in terms of comfort and pressure relief. They mold to the shape of your feet and provide some wonderful cushioning. ConsExacerbate preexisting conditions Although this might feel like a great benefit at first, if you have any preexisting conditions, memory foam could potentially exacerbate them over time as they don't adjust the way your foot operates, only enhance it. Memory foam insoles are good if all you need is a general pair for some extra cushioning and support and don't intend to use them for high-intensity exercise. Gel Insoles ProsShock absorption Makes them perfect for use in high-intensity exercise that involves a lot of impact stress.ConsLack arch support They don't provide much arch supportNot for symptomatic treatment Gel insoles are not suitable for managing symptoms of flat feet or overpronation. Which Insole Should You Buy? Both gel and memory foam insoles are primarily used for giving some extra support or shock absorption, and so it really comes down to whether you are using them for general comfort or to help you during exercise. Make choosing even easier by checking out Upstep's collection of the best insoles for foot pain.
Asked 2 months ago
How Yoga Can Help With Shin Splint Pain Relief
Shin splints is a common overuse injury that often occurs as a result of repetitive physical activity. Shin splints refer to pain along the inner aspect of the shin bone (tibia), usually due to inflammation occurring in the muscles and tendons surrounding the bone. Physical activities that include running or jumping are often associated with the development of shin splints. Changes in the amount and duration of exercise are major contributing factors. Rest, application of ice, stretches, and orthotics can all help manage shin splints. Anti-inflammatory medications and physical therapy also prove to be useful. Those with flat feet or rigid arches, as well as those exercising in worn-out shoes, are at a higher risk. Yoga targeting the lower legs will stretch and strengthen the muscles surrounding the tibia to help improve your symptoms while preventing reoccurrence in the future. Stretches to Prevent Shin Splints Tibialis Anterior Stretch: This stretch aims to target and stretch the tibialis anterior muscle, found on the front of your lower leg. Start by sitting on your knees with your feet together behind you.Place your hands on the floor in front of you, slightly pointing your toes behind your body.Lean forwards and slowly raise yourself up, allowing yourself to feel the weight of your body through your toes.This should elicit a stretch in the tibialis anterior muscle, and hold for 15- 30 seconds.Repeat 3-4 times. Achilles Tendon Stretch: This stretch will help stretch the calf muscles and the Achilles tendon. Start sitting on your buttocks with your legs out in front of you.Bend one knee and allow the other leg to be out in front of you with your heel on the floor.Loop a towel or belt around the foot of your outstretched leg and slowly pull back towards you. This should elicit a stretch in the calf muscle and Achilles tendon.Hold for 15 - 30 seconds and release.Repeat 3- 4 times on both legs.For the more experienced yogis, a downward-facing dog is also a great way to target these muscles. The Path to Shin Splint Relief In addition to yoga stretches targeting shin splints, orthotics play a crucial role in treating and preventing the pain and discomfort associated with this condition. It's important to choose the best insoles for shin splints, as custom orthotics help reduce the shock placed on the tibia bone and surrounding structures. Upstep's custom orthotics offer an effective and affordable solution for managing shin splints. Moreover, individuals with flat feet or rigid arches will especially benefit from the support and stability provided by custom orthotics.
Asked 2 months ago
Shin Splints and Knee Pain: Is There a Connection?
Shin splints describe various conditions causing pain and discomfort in the front part of the tibia (shinbone), resulting from the overuse of the surrounding muscles and tendons, and should only cause pain in the shins. Overtraining and inadequate footwear often contribute to this condition, which manifests as top-of-shin pain and mild lower leg swelling. Can Shin Splints Cause Knee Pain? While shin splints should only cause pain in the shins, they may sometimes lead to knee pain due to the anatomical relationship between the lower leg muscles and the knee joint. Muscles attaching to the front of the tibia also cross the knee joint. When overworked or fatigued, these muscles can disrupt knee joint alignment and stability, causing pain. However, several other factors can contribute to knee pain: Aging: As we age, the cartilage in the knee joint wears out, potentially leading to knee pain over time.Injury: Injuries to structures in and around the knee joint, such as tendons, ligaments, or menisci, can cause knee pain.Arthritis: Arthritic conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout can result in knee pain.Runner's knee: Also known as patellofemoral pain syndrome, runner's knee causes pain around the patella at the front of the knee.Obesity: Excess weight increases the burden on the knees, leading to knee pain. Say Goodbye to Knee and Shin Pain Orthotics can not only alleviate existing knee pain and shin splints but also help prevent them. Custom-made insoles provide pain relief by ensuring proper foot alignment, offering tailored arch support, comfort, and optimal energy transfer during motion. Give Upstep's custom orthotics a try and experience the difference they can make in managing shin splints and knee pain.
Asked 2 months ago
Should You Use Hard or Soft Orthotics for Plantar Fasciitis?
Walking with plantar fasciitis is painful. Thankfully, orthotics can often be used to help address the pain. Research has shown that orthotics can improve function and relieve pain in adults with acute plantar fasciitis. The question then remains whether to choose hard or soft orthotics. What Should Orthotics for Plantar Fasciitis Have? Choosing a hard or soft orthotic is secondary in handling plantar fasciitis, as they each have different benefits. The things you definitely should look for in a pair of foot orthotics for plantar fasciitis pain relief are: Deep heel cups Orthotics with deep heel cups absorb shock and any additional stress when walking or running on a hard surface. They also act as a foot stabilizer that maintains natural foot alignment during intense sporting activities. Excellent cushioning A good orthotic must have good cushioning pads to absorb shock and increase comfort. A layer of resilient foam or an EVA cushioned foam layer can work in this case. Fit and comfortable It must be designed to fit your feet perfectly. Over-the-counter orthotics are not the best option because of this. Instead, custom-designed orthotics will factor in your foot shape and condition to guarantee a perfect fit and comfort. » Seeking alternative methods to treat your plantar fasciitis? Check out our guide on pressure points for plantar fasciitis When to Choose Hard or Soft Orthotics for Plantar Fasciitis Your choice of whether to go for a hard or soft orthotic depends entirely on what you need. If you require firm support, then hard orthotics is ideal. A soft orthotic is ideal for taking pressure off the foot. If you’re new to using insoles but have plantar fasciitis pain, try semi-rigid orthotic arch support that provides a fine blend of support, flexibility, and comfort. » Need more help choosing? Check out our guide on the best orthotics for flat feet and plantar fasciitis
Asked 2 months ago
Recent Posts
Can't find what you're looking for?