Have you ever felt any pain in heel, burning sensation, and/or stiffness in the bottom of the feet? Does it worsen in the morning when you take your first step, or after standing or sitting in for a while, or when you climb the stairs or after you do an intense activity? Then, you probably have Plantar Fasciitis.
Plantar Fasciitis is caused by the inflammation and swelling of the thick tissue that is ligament like and located below the heel of the foot. It happens when this thick band of tissue is overstretched or overused. Usually, people who have Plantar Fasciitis are those with foot arch problems who are obese, who run in long distances, or who wear shoes with poor arch support and soft soles. It is most common among active men from ages 40 to 70 years old.
There are many treatments to address Plantar Fasciitis, Usually, upon diagnosis, doctors recommend a weeklong footrest to allow the swelling to subside. Anti-inflammatory drugs and painkillers are also given to address the swelling and pain. Heel stretching and foot exercises are found to be helpful as well in reducing pain.
The following can help alleviate the pain of Plantar Fasciitis.
1. Application of ice in the painful area, twice a day, for 10-15 minutes.
2. Wearing of heel cup, felt pads, or shoe inserts.
3. Using of night splints to stretch the damaged muscles.
If pain and swelling persists after a week, the doctor may opt to recommend wearing of boot cast, custom-made shoe inserts or steroid shots or injections to the heel.
Plantar Fasciitis is almost always addressed by nonsurgical treatments mentioned above. Treatment usually lasts for several months to two years before the aforementioned symptoms subside. Some patients whose pain still persists after treatment may opt for surgery upon the advice of the doctor.
Here are some more Plantar Fasciitis Exercise Treatments
