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Heel pain generally is the result of faulty biomechanics that place too much stress on the heel bone and the soft tissues that attach to it. Stress may also be a result of injury, or a bruise incurred while walking, running, or jumping on hard surfaces. Plantar fasciitis is a very common diagnosis of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a broad band of fibrous tissue that runs along the bottom surface of the foot, from the heel through the mid-foot and into the fore-foot. Pain will often be intense first thing in the morning or after a prolonged period of rest and will gradually subside as the day progresses. Plantar Fasciitis Causes Excessive stretching of the plantar fascia that leads to the inflammation and discomfort can be caused by the following: • Over-pronation which results in the collapse of the arch upon weight bearing
• A foot with an unusually high arch
• A sudden increase in physical activity
• Irritation
• Improper fitting footwear The bottom of your foot usually hurts near the inside of the foot where the heel and arch meet when you are suffering from plantar fasciitis. Your pain may often be mild either first thing in the morning or after a long rest. This is because while resting the plantar fascia contracts back to its original shape. As the day progresses and the plantar fascia continue to be stretched, the pain can often subside. Treatment and Prevention of Plantar Fasciitis The key to proper treatment of plantar fasciitis is in determining what the underlying cause of excessive stretching of the plantar fascia is. When the cause is over-pronation, an orthotic with rear-foot posting and longitudinal support is an effective device to reduce symptoms and allow the condition to heal properly. If you have high arches, cushion the heel, absorb shock and wear proper footwear that will accommodate and comfort the foot. Another common treatment method involves stretching exercises, night splints, wearing shoes that have a cushioned heel to absorb shock, and elevating the heel with the use of a heel cradle or cup. Every time your foot strikes the ground, the plantar fascia is stretched. You can reduce strain and stress by avoiding running on hard or uneven surfaces, lose any excess weight, and wear shoes and orthotics that support your arch to prevent over stretching of the plantar fascia. If your pain or symptoms of inflammation persist, a trip to your Charlotte, NC podiatrist may be in order. Your Ballantyne, NC podiatrist will examine your heel and may also perform X-rays in order to rule out other causes. Early treatment and prevention are key in avoiding prolonged heel pain. Don't ignore your pain.
Sean Hartmen writes for Dr. Scott Basinger of Ankle and Foot Center of Charlotte, a leading podiatrist in Charlotte, NC and Ballantyne. Offering a full array of services, including heel pain, ingrown toenails, foot pain, bunions and orthotics in Charlotte, NC, Dr. Basinger is qualified to treat any disorder of the foot and ankle for patients of all ages.
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