Plantar Fasciitis: Heel Pain
Plantar fasciitis is a common condition characterized by inflammation of a thick band of tissue that connects your heel bone to your toes. This tissue is called the plantar fascia, and when it becomes inflamed, it can cause severe heel pain, especially with your first steps in the morning.
Causes of Plantar Fasciitis
- Overuse: Activities that involve repetitive stress on the heel, such as running, jumping, or standing for long periods.
- Obesity: Excess weight puts additional stress on the feet.
- Foot mechanics: Abnormal foot mechanics, like flat feet or high arches, can contribute to plantar fasciitis.
- Tight calf muscles: Tight calf muscles can put extra strain on the plantar fascia.
- Age: The risk of plantar fasciitis increases with age as the plantar fascia loses elasticity.
Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis
- Pain: A sharp, stabbing pain in the heel, often worse in the morning or after periods of rest.
- Stiffness: Stiffness in the heel, especially after prolonged periods of inactivity.
- Tenderness: Tenderness in the area where the plantar fascia attaches to the heel bone.
Treatment for Plantar Fasciitis
- Rest: Avoid activities that aggravate the pain.
- Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce pain and inflammation.
- Physical therapy: A physical therapist can provide specific exercises and modalities to help alleviate pain and improve function.
- Stretching: Gentle stretches for the calf muscles and plantar fascia can help relieve pain.
- Cold: Apply cold packs to the affected area to reduce inflammation.
- Use of high power laser therapy to reduce inflammation of the tendons.
- Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT): This therapy uses sound waves to stimulate healing.
- Orthotics: Custom-made orthotics can help support the arch of the foot and reduce stress on the plantar fascia.
- Orthotics: Custom-made orthotics can help support the arch of the foot and reduce stress on the plantar fascia.
- Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to release the tight plantar fascia.
Prevention
- Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight puts additional stress on the feet.
- Wear supportive footwear: Choose shoes with good arch support and cushioning.
- Stretch regularly: Stretch your calf muscles and plantar fascia daily.
- Avoid excessive standing or walking on hard surfaces.
If you are experiencing heel pain, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent long-term complications and improve your quality of life.
Freesia Rehab Clinic offers comprehensive rehabilitation services for individuals suffering from office syndrome. Our team of experienced physiatrists and therapists with medical equipment can help you recover and prevent future injuries.