According to the Mayo Clinic website, plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of pain in the heel and bottom arch of the foot. Pain is caused by the inflammation of a thick band of tissue called the plantar fascia. The plantar fascia runs from the heel of your foot to the toe, and inflammation of this tissue can cause an extreme stabbing pain that is most prominent at the heel. This pain is usually worst in the mornings, or after long periods of sitting or standing. Symptoms usually subside once the foot has stretched out and become more limber, but may persist in extreme cases.
Recognize the cause of plantar fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is most common in runners, although it is often the result of being overweight, pregnant or wearing shoes with inadequate arch support. Women who wear high-heeled shoes are at a higher risk for plantar fasciitis. This is because the plantar fascia tends to contract and shrink in women who wear high heels on a regular basis, and will become over-stretched or painful when the high-heeled shoes are removed. Other risk factors include flat-footedness or unusually high arches and occupations that keep you on your feet for extended periods of time.
Treat the symptoms of plantar fasciitis
Pain associated with plantar fasciitis can hinder daily activities. When pain is severe, the best option for treatment is adequate rest for the affected foot and the application of an ice pack to reduce swelling. Adding arch supports to your regular footwear can help support the plantar fascia and absorb the shock that causes most pain. Over the counter pain relievers such as aspirin or ibuprofin can help reduce the pain and swelling associated with the condition.
If pain is severe for extended periods of time, consult your doctor about solutions. He or she may provide a boot for you to wear at night that will stretch the plantar fascia while you sleep, reducing stiffness and pain in the mornings.
Prevent recurrences:
Stretch the affected foot on a regular basis to help loosen the tissue and encourage limberness. If the pain is caused by high-impact exercises such as dance or running, try performing other exercises such as bicycling or swimming. Replace old, worn athletic shoes, as they will lose the ability to adequately support your feet after approximately 500 miles. Maintaining a healthy weight is another way to reduce symptoms of plantar fasciitis, as being overweight or obese can lead to additional strain on the feet.
Source Cited:
Mayo Clinic. "Plantar fasciitis" (accessed November 18, 2010).
Megan Kelly - Megan Kelly started writing professionally in 2007, when she was published in the anthology, "Lit Kids: Mama Bird and the Electric Rabbit" ...
