Plantar Fasciitis: Understanding the Causes and Treatment Options

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is a condition characterized by pain in the heel and bottom of the foot, particularly after periods of inactivity.

Causes of Plantar Fasciitis

1. Obesity or Sudden Weight Gain: Excess weight puts pressure on the connective tissue underneath the feet.
2. Pressure on Heels: People who stand for long periods are prone to developing plantar fasciitis.
3. Abnormalities of Foot: Flat feet or high arches can cause pressure on the ligament.
4. Diabetes and Arthritis: Plantar fasciitis is more common in people with diabetes and certain types of arthritis.
5. Wearing Wrong Footwear: Wearing shoes that don’t fit properly can cause inflammation in the ligament.

Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis

– Pain in the heel or bottom of the foot
– Pain that’s worse after periods of rest or inactivity
– Pain that’s relieved by stretching or massage

Treatment Options

1. Exercises: Stretching and strengthening exercises can help relieve pain and inflammation.
2. Footwear: Wearing shoes that fit properly and provide adequate support can help reduce pain.
3. Orthotics: Custom-made orthotics can help redistribute pressure and alleviate pain.
4. Night Splints: Wearing a night splint can help keep the feet in the right position and reduce pain.

Prevention

1. Wear Proper Footwear: Wear shoes that fit properly and provide adequate support.
2. Maintain a Healthy Weight: Excess weight can put pressure on the connective tissue underneath the feet.
3. Avoid Standing for Long Periods: Take regular breaks to rest your feet.
4. Stretch Regularly: Stretching can help relieve pain and inflammation.

References

https://www.foothealthfacts.org/conditions/heel-pain-(plantar-fasciitis)
https://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/heel-pain/basics/causes/sym-20050788
https://www.health.harvard.edu/a_to_z/heel-pain-a-to-z
https://health.clevelandclinic.org/chronic-heel-pain-4-simple-fixes-for-your-plantar-fasciitis/
https://www.everydayhealth.com/plantar-fasciitis/guide/
https://heelthatpain.com/heel-pain/morning-heel-pain/