I just got diagnosed with PF a couple of days ago by a podiatrist (of course, a participating specialist in my HMO) who went straight from diagnosing PF to "seriously recommending" $300 orthotics. If you read the posts throughout this site you will find many alternatives to start with. I've been in high-arch walking shoes non-stop for several months now which lessen the pain a little. I do morning and noon calf stretches, have just bought my first pair of Spencos (which seem pretty good at first blush) and am headed to the Birkenstock store today.
One thing I have learned from reading this site is -- everyone responds differently, to the pain and to the attempted remedies. I'm also going to trying to frozen rolling coke bottle everyone talks about -- it sounds like comfort and good exercise for the feet. Being a novice at this like you -- personally, I'm going to start with the least invasive and least traumatic measures and work my way up (or down) as needed.
I'm interested in previous posts on strengthening foot muscles. This sounds logical to me. I'm going to investigate what kinds of exercises will actually strengthen foot muscles and give it a shot. Keep us posted on what works for you. Robin
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