Plantar fasciitis
This condition is one of the most common causes of heel pain, particularly among athletes, runners, and individuals who spend long periods standing or walking.
Causes:
The exact cause of plantar fasciitis is not always clear, but it is often associated with repetitive strain and overuse of the plantar fascia. Factors that may contribute to the development of plantar fasciitis include:
1. Overpronation:Excessive inward rolling of the foot while walking or running can strain the plantar fascia and lead to inflammation.
2. Poor Footwear: Wearing shoes with inadequate support or cushioning, or shoes with improper fit, can increase the risk of plantar fasciitis.
3. Excessive Physical Activity:High-impact activities such as running, jumping, or standing for long periods can put excessive strain on the plantar fascia, leading to inflammation and pain.
4. Tightness or Weakness: Tight calf muscles, Achilles tendon, or weak foot muscles can alter foot mechanics and contribute to the development of plantar fasciitis.
Symptoms:
The most common symptom of plantar fasciitis is heel pain, typically felt on the bottom of the foot near the heel. The pain may be sharp or stabbing and is often most pronounced with the first steps in the morning or after periods of rest. Pain may also worsen with prolonged standing, walking, or activity, and may improve with rest.
Treatment:
1. Rest and Ice: Resting the affected foot, applying ice packs, and avoiding activities that exacerbate symptoms can help reduce inflammation and pain.
2. Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: Gentle stretching exercises for the calf muscles, Achilles tendon, and plantar fascia can help improve flexibility and reduce strain. Strengthening exercises for the foot and ankle muscles can also help improve foot mechanics and stability.
3. Orthotics and Supportive Footwear: Wearing supportive shoes with adequate cushioning and arch support, or using orthotic inserts, can help reduce strain on the plantar fascia and improve foot alignment.
4. Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can provide specialized exercises, manual therapy, and other interventions to address biomechanical issues, improve mobility, and reduce pain.
5. Medications:Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen may help reduce pain and inflammation associated with plantar fasciitis.
6. Night Splints: Wearing a night splint that holds the foot in a dorsiflexed position can help stretch the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon while sleeping, reducing morning pain and stiffness.
Conclusion:
Plantar fasciitis can be a painful and debilitating condition, but with proper treatment and self-care, most individuals experience significant improvement in symptoms within a few months. It's important to address contributing factors such as overuse, improper footwear, and biomechanical issues to prevent recurrence. If conservative measures fail to provide relief, more advanced treatments such as corticosteroid injections or shockwave therapy may be considered. Seeking prompt medical attention and adhering to a comprehensive treatment plan can help individuals with plantar fasciitis return to their normal activities and enjoy a pain-free lifestyle.
Dr Rahebana Masood