What is Plantar Fasciitis, and What Are the Symptoms?
Plantar fasciitis is a common condition that causes pain in the heel of a foot. The thick tissue underneath the foot becomes inflamed, and this tissue connects the heel bone to the toes.
If you are suffering from plantar fasciitis, you will feel a sharp stabbing pain under your foot. This will likely strike with your first steps of the day and ease as the day continues. However, you might notice it peaks again after long periods of sitting down.
Causes of Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is common in runners, overweight people and people that wear shoes that cause pressure. The plantar fascia supports the arch of the foot and provides support from the impact of walking. If this area suffers excess tension, it can tear. If this happens a few times, the fascia will become inflamed. Some things that are considered risk factors for plantar fasciitis include:
Age – Those between the age of 40-60 are more vulnerable to plantar fasciitis, although it can develop at any age.
Exercise – Some forms of exercise cause immense stress on the heels. Ballet, running and aerobic dance are among these.
Foot shape – If you have flat feet, mishappen feet, a high arch or bunions, it may cause weight to distribute unevenly. This could lead to plantar fasciitis.
Being overweight – Excess weight increases the pressure on your feet and heals.
Job – If you have a job that involves a lot of running around and being on your feet for long hours, this could be a contributing factor.
Treatment and prevention
If you ignore plantar fasciitis, it could become chronic heel pain. It may be tempting to change how you walk to ease the pressure and pain, but this could result in knee, hip, foot or back issues.
To ease the pain of plantar fasciitis, you should rest your foot where possible and apply an ice pack to the area. You could also try investing in comfortable and supportive shoes. Stay away from exercise and running until the pain has stopped.
Contact a podiatry specialist, such as Louisa Seymour Podiatry, if you think you may be suffering from plantar fasciitis.
For information about our podiatry services, contact Louisa Seymour Podiatry on 01277 266870.
