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Your feet are often one of the most overlooked parts of your body, yet they can tell you so much about your overall health. It is important to pay close attention to what your feet are telling you, especially when you are active with running and fitness activities. Plantar fasciitis is a common ailment in many different age groups, but especially in active adults. Runners are particularly at risk because of the repeated stress on the plantar fascia. When the arch drops, the plantar fascia begins to tear away from tis insertion at the calcaneus. Progressive flattening of the arches can occur with weight gain, lack of flexibility of the calf muscles, increase in physical activity, and over pronation. Plantar fasciitis causes stabbing pain that usually occurs with your very first steps in the morning. Once your foot loosens up, the pain of plantar fasciitis may decrease. Your pain may return after long periods of standing or after getting up from a seat position. Very common in runners, it is important to pay extra attention to the health of your feet. What Causes Plantar Fasciitis? Plantar fasciitis is often caused by straining of the ligament that supports your arch and manifests as foot pain while standing or walking. Repeated strain on your ligaments can cause tiny tears to occur, which can lead to pain and swelling. The pain you exhibit is caused by the soft tissue inflammation within the plantar fascia. Plantar fasciitis is often associated with:
• Obesity or sudden weight gain
• Exercise and running
• Too much pressure on your heels
• Foot abnormalities
• Wearing shoes that don't fit well Some symptoms of plantar fasciitis include:
• Pain on the bottom of the heel
• Pain that is usually worse upon arising
• Pain that increases over a period of time
• Throbbing pain, especially at the end of the day
Running tips include:
• Start easy and build up your distances slowly
• Don't forget to stretch regularly
• Use sport specific shoes
• Fit your shoes with the socks that you plan to wear during your running. After a few minutes of walking your pain may decrease or temporarily resolve because walking stretches the fascia. For some people, the pain may subside for a moment, but will return after spending long periods of time on their feet. Heel Pain Treatment and Prevention Treatment for plantar fasciitis can begin at home with conventional strategies such as: • Stretching activities
• Avoid going barefoot
• Ice the area
• Limit your activities
• Modify your shoes Footwear selection is also an important criterion when treating heel pain. Shoes that contain a firm heel counter, good arch support, and appropriate heel height are the ideal choice for easing your pain. If your pain persists, contact your Ridgeland podiatrist for further consultation and treatment of your symptoms and ailments. Your Ridgeland podiatrist can further evaluate your condition by examining your foot, and by utilizing advanced imaging techniques that are available in the office. Further treatment may involve a safe and effective injection of cortisone, in office physical therapy as well as the use of custom fitted arch supports, or orthotics. Avoid plantar fasciitis with the help of your podiatrist and proper prevention.
Sean Hartmen writes for Dr. Rose Sotolongo, leading podiatrist in Ridgeland. Dr. Sotolongo has been practicing in Mississippi for 16 years and specializes in custom molded orthotics and braces for your foot and ankle needs. Patients who are looking for quality foot and ankle health care turn to Dr. Sotolongo, Ridgeland podiatrist, and her team of professionals for all of their needs.
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