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Running with heel pain can be an agonizing experience. For those who have active lifestyles, it is often hard to adjust and limit your physical activity once you encounter heel pain. It is important to know the symptoms and treatment methods for some of the most common types of heel pain that develop among runners. Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common types of heel pain that can develop with excessive running. The plantar fascia is a long, flat ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot, from the heel to the toes and is made up of fibrous tissue that can become inflamed when it is abnormally stretched or when it experiences repetitive stress. Millions of cases of plantar fasciitis occur each year among runners, not to mention those who are active in other sports such as basketball and tennis. This condition can also affect those who have begun a rigorous exercise program after a long period of no exercise and little conditioning. What is Plantar Fasciitis? Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the band of tissue that extends from the heel to the toes. In this condition, the fascia first becomes irritated and then inflamed, resulting in heel pain. Plantar fasciitis often causes pain that is more severe following a period of rest, such as sleeping. Over-pronation can cause the plantar fascia to be excessively stretched and inflamed, resulting in pain in the heel and arch areas of the foot. Pain will gradually subside as the day progresses, but often resumes after resting. Prevention and Treatment of Heel Pain Preventative measures are very important in the maintenance of healthy, pain-free heels. Wearing supportive shoes, stretching, and using custom orthotic devices are the best sources for long-term treatment for plantar fasciitis. Some other heel pain tips for prevention and treatment include: • Don't wear slippers, socks or go barefoot in your house if you have experienced heel pain. Try wearing shoes around your house in the evening to give your feet more support.
• Begin an exercise program slowly. Don't go too far or too fast.
• Purchase and maintain proper shoes, replacing them regularly.
• Avoid going barefoot on hard surfaces
• If it hurts, stop. Don't try to "work through the pain." Heel pain treatment can begin by refraining from putting any additional stress on the inflamed or painful area. Do not run long distances or participate in any exercise that would put repetitive pounding and weight on the heel of your foot. Treatment also depends entirely on the cause of the problem, making it important that you understand the cause of your symptoms and visit your podiatrist for diagnosis. Treatment of plantar fasciitis (heel pain) begins at home with: • Stretching exercises
• Avoid going barefoot
• Ice
• Limit activities
• Shoe modifications
• Medications When your condition is pronation related, an orthotic with medial posting and good arch support can help control the pronation and prevent the inflammation of the plantar fascia. Footwear selection is also an important aspect to properly treat your heel pain. Shoes with a firm heel counter, good arch support, and appropriate heel height are the ideal choice for footwear. If the problem persists, contact your podiatrist for further diagnosis and treatment. If your pain and other symptoms of inflammation persist, you should limit your normal daily activities and contact your Richmond podiatrist for further diagnosis. Your podiatrist will examine the area and may perform diagnostic x-rays to rule out problems of the bone. Early treatment and prevention is important in the maintenance of your feet.
Sean Hartmen writes for Dr. Vantre, leading podiatrist in Richmond. Dr. Vantre has been successfully treating his patients by providing the best in podiatric foot and ankle care to his patients in the Richmond area. Dr. Vantre is uniquely qualified to treat any traumatic, reconstructive, or congenital conditions of the foot, hind foot, ankle and lower leg, as well as heel pain in Richmond.
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