feet hurt

[Monkeymorgan]

I'm 16 and for 2 years I have worn the same orthotics because I have flat feet. When I walk my feet roll in and they point out really bad. Last Monday I didn't wear my orthotics because I wore sandals. I can usually go a day without them but by 2 right foot hurt really bad. So I put in my orthotics because that has always helped before but this time it didn't. It is hurting worse now. The pain is on the bottom of my foot right in my arch. Rolling a baseball under it helps until I stop. Today a dull pain started in the same place on my left. Why do my stupid feet hurt? How can I help relieve the pain besides attaching a baseball to the bottom of my foot? We really can't go get the orthotics adjusted because the place has damage from the tornado (we live in Joplin) and it hasn't opened yet.

[Michael L Gross, MD]

Definitely conisistant with plantar strain, but if the pain persists, see your foot specialist,

[Monkeymorgan]

I have been icing and stretching.  I tried every shoe in my closet with and without orthotics. Nothing is helping and now the ball of my foot and heel hurt too. The pain has almost formed a line from the ball to my heel. Is this normal for a strained plantar fascia?

[Michael L Gross, MD]

Sounds like you may have strained the planter fascia. Icing and stretching should give you some relief. In addition, any shoes with a good arch may be able to take the place of your orthotics for the time being. In the meantime, you could try over the counter inserts for temporary relief.