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Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is the thick band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes. When this band of connective tissue becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis occurs. Fortunately, this condition is treatable.
There are several factors that may put you at a greater risk for developing plantar fasciitis. One of the biggest factors is age; plantar fasciitis is common in those between the ages of 40 to 60. Unsurprisingly, plantar fasciitis is also a common injury among runners and other athletes. Other possible causes for plantar fasciitis include wearing unsupportive shoes and standing for prolonged periods of time. People who are obese, have flat feet, abnormally high arches, or are pregnant may be at an increased risk of developing this condition.
The telltale symptom of plantar fasciitis is an acute, sharp, stabbing pain in the heel. This pain may radiate to the arch of the foot, and you may also notice swelling near the heel. The pain is usually at its worst in the morning, but can also be triggered by periods of standing or sitting. Plantar fasciitis may make it hard to run and walk. It may also make the foot feel stiff and sensitive, which consequently makes walking barefoot difficult.
Treatment for plantar fasciitis depends on the severity of the specific case of the condition. Ice massage applications may be used to reduce pain and inflammation. Physical therapy is often used to treat plantar fasciitis, and this may include stretching exercises. Another treatment option is anti-inflammatory medication, such as ibuprofen. If the pain persists, your doctor may suggest padding, taping, or strapping the affected foot, wearing orthotics, a night splint, or a cast,and corticosteroid injections into the foot. If these treatment methods do not produce results, surgery can be considered.
If you suspect that you have plantar fasciitis, meet with your podiatrist immediately. If left untreated, symptoms may lead to tearing and overstretching of the plantar fascia. The solution is early detection and treatment. Be sure to speak with your podiatrist if you are experiencing heel pain.
