Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the band of tissue (the plantar fascia) that extends from the heel to the toes. In this condition, the fascia first becomes irritated & then inflamed, resulting in heel pain.

The most common cause of plantar fasciitis relates to faulty structure of the foot, such as either overly flat feet or high-arched feet. Wearing non-supportive footwear on hard, flat surfaces puts abnormal strain on the plantar fascia & can also lead to plantar fasciitis. This is particularly evident when one’s job requires long hours on the feet. Obesity and overuse may also contribute to plantar fasciitis.

Symptons

Pain on the bottom of the heel
Pain in the arch of the foot
Pain that is usually worse upon arising
Pain that increases over a period of months

Direct Causes of Plantar Fasciitis:

Repeated over-stretch of plantar fascia
A long time of standing or walking
Wearing shoes with little arch support
Weak foot muscles

Nonsurgical Teartment：

Foot Stretching Exercise: Exercises that stretch out the calf muscles help ease the pain and assist with recovery.
Foot Orthotic Devices: Custom orthotic devices that fit into your shoe help correct the underlying structural abnormalities causing the plantar fasciitis.
Avoid Walking Barefoot: When you walk without shoes, you put undue strain and stress on your plantar fascia.
Ice: Putting an ice pack on your heel for 20 minutes several times a day helps reduce inflammation. Place a thin towel between the ice and your heel; do not apply ice directly to the skin.
Activities Modifications: Cut down on extended physical activities to give your heel a rest.
Shoes Modifications: Wearing supportive shoes that have good arch support and a slightly raised heel reduces stress on the plantar fascia.
Medications: Oral nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, may be recommended to reduce pain and inflammation.
Physical Therapy: Exercises and other physical therapy measures may be used to help provide relief.

FAQ

What are the symptoms of plantar fasciitis？

Pain in your heel and it’s usually worse when you take your first steps in the morning or after you have been sitting for a long time. It tends to feel better with activity but worsens again after you spend a long time on your feet.

Is plantar fasciitis more common for women ？

Plantar fasciitis is slightly more common in women than men. Specially during late pregnancy with increased body weight loading on plantar fascia.

Is plantar fasciitis and heel spurs the same ？

About 50% of plantar fasciitis patients have heel spurs. However, the heel spurs themselfves are more likely not painful and are often a result of untreated plantar fasciitis.

Can plantar fasciitis go away without treatment？

Yes, it can go away on its own, but may take a long time. To start nonsurgical treatment for plantar fasciitis should be considered first and it also prevent it from occuring again in the future.

Can plantar fasciitis happen to a child？

Yes, but very unlikely. It typically occurs in your athletes that participate in sports involving a lot of jumping and running.

Foot orthotics for plantar fasciitis