Plantar Fasciitis

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

Many of us may have experienced this as some point in our lives; but for some it is an ongoing pain.

Plantar Faciitis is inflammation of the plantar fascia which is the “bow string” like, inelastic ligament which links the ball of the foot to the heel. It ensures that the arch doesn’t collapse and the foot doesn’t spread out when we walk (gait). This ligament withstands extreme tension during gait.  Inflammation and pain occur when stretched excessively because tiny tears are sustained to this tough tissue.

Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis:

Pain felt in the heel, arch of the foot, along bottom of the foot particularly where the heel and arch meet. The pain tends to be worse in the morning as the plantar fascia has returned to its original shape overnight. This pain often starts intermittently and progresses to a constant pain. The feet may also feel hot and swell.

Causes of Plantar Fasciitis:

The main cause is flat feet although high /weak arches, excessive stress / weakness on the foot arch, an increase in physical activity, inactivity, excessive weight on the feet (excess body weight / pregnancy), rigid feet, running on the toes and poor fitting shoes can all also be to blame.
It is commonly associated with Heel Spurs as sufferers tend to develop heel spurs to alleviate the tension placed on the plantar fascia; Heel Spurs are a common indicator that a patient is suffering with this condition. It is found to affect more women than men.

Relief and Prevention of Plantar Fasciitis:

Regular stretching of the calf muscles can help especially if you sit at a desk for long periods. Resting of the foot, application of ice packs and massaging the plantar foot area can also help. In some cases orthotics can help.

Even a change in shoe size can help.

Simple toe tapping exercises can also help.

If the pain persists always seek professional advice in order to rule out stress fractures and collagen disorders.