Last Updated on December 3, 2022 by Ellen Christian
A few years ago, I noticed my heel hurt occasionally. I didn’t think much of it. I thought maybe I had stepped on a rock or something and not noticed it. Eventually, instead of my heel hurting occasionally, it started hurting all the time. I wasn’t able to walk barefoot any longer and had to be certain I had shoes or slippers on at all times. I chalked it up to old age and tried not to think about it. Eventually, after ignoring it for too long, my heel hurt all the time, even when wearing shoes. I decided I needed to talk to a doctor about it.
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Tips for Walking with Heel Pain on Vacation
The doctor informed me that I had plantars fasciitis or a heel spur. I immediately had visions of never being able to enjoy long walks again. I love walking whether it’s on our dirt road on a summer afternoon or through the museums on vacation. I was miserable at the thought that I wouldn’t be able to enjoy these things any longer. After doing some research, I realized that walking with heel pain is possible. There are things that you can do to help decrease the pain so that you can continue to enjoy walking.
- Be realistic. If you have heel pain, it may not be possible for you to spend eight hours on your feet walking. Know your limitations and what you’re capable of before you make plans.
- Prepare for your vacation. In the days leading up to your vacation, minimize the amount of time you spend on your feet. Baby your feet as much as possible.
- Stretching exercises. Speak to your doctor about stretching exercises to help with your heel pain. Don’t overdo it though.
- Reduce inflammation. Try using ice and ibuprofen or an NSAID to help reduce inflammation.
- Avoid walking on uneven surfaces. If possible, walk on paved roads or sidewalks rather than across grass or other uneven surfaces.
- Take frequent breaks. Many attractions have benches that you can sit on while you rest for a few minutes. Don’t be afraid to sit down when you need to.
- Wear shoes made for people with foot pain. It’s very important that you have the proper cushioning and support. Shoes made for foot pain will provide that for you.
The Orthaheel Technology built into every pair of Vionic shoes and sandals (and that was previously built into Orthaheel and Dr. Weil Integrative Footwear) has been truly life changing for many. It not only alleviates foot, back and leg pain, but also prevents it. One of the most notable conditions Orthaheel Technology relieves is plantar fasciitis. The often debilitating foot pain associated with plantar fasciitis affects people of all ages and athletic conditions – and Vionic with Orthaheel Technology has these sufferers regain their walking lives without pain!
Wearing Vionic shoes has allowed me to enjoy walking again. Spring is one of my favorite times of the year because I can walk up our dirt road and enjoy the flowers and scenery. I can also enjoy our summer day trips with the family. I love visiting museums and local attractions. I plan on visiting the Shelburne Museum and the Vermont Wildflower Farm this summer with my Mom. That wouldn’t be possible without my Vionic shoes. This summer I’ll be vacationing in style in my Aubrey Slide Sandals from Vionic.
Vionic is inviting people to share their #SoleStory for a chance to be featured in Vionic’s 2015 ad campaign. The mission behind the #solestory campaign is to share why wearing stylish yet healthy and supportive shoes can enhance life. Podiatrist designed Orthaheel Technology (built into every pair of Vionic) has given thousands of people the freedom to enjoy life free of foot, leg and back pain! Check out the 2014 Sole Stories.
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Ellen is a busy mom of a 24-year-old son and 29-year-old daughter. She owns six blogs and is addicted to social media. She believes that it doesn’t have to be difficult to lead a healthy life. She shares simple healthy living tips to show busy women how to lead fulfilling lives. If you’d like to work together, email info@confessionsofanover-workedmom.com to chat.
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