Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is a condition that causes pain in the heel and bottom of the foot. It is caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot and connects the heel bone to the toes. Symptoms include heel pain that is worst in the morning and after sitting for long periods, and pain that improves with activity. Risk factors include obesity, high arches or flat feet, and jobs that involve standing or walking on hard surfaces. Treatment typically includes rest, ice, physical therapy, and stretching exercises, as well as orthotic inserts or heel cups to support the foot. In some cases, a corticosteroid injection may be used to reduce inflammation.

According to some studies, plantar fasciitis affects about 10% of the general population at some point in their lives, and it is more common in people between the ages of 40 and 60. It is also more common in people who are physically active and those who have certain risk factors such as obesity, high arches or flat feet, and jobs that involve standing or walking on hard surfaces. According to a study conducted by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of heel pain, accounting for about 80% of all heel pain cases.

Symptoms

The main symptom of plantar fasciitis is pain in the heel and bottom of the foot, specifically near the heel. The pain is often worst in the morning or after sitting for long periods, and can improve with activity. Other symptoms include:

• Stiffness in the foot, especially in the morning

• Swelling or tenderness in the heel or arch

• Burning or tingling sensation in the heel

• Difficulty standing on tiptoes

• A visible arch or heel cord that appears swollen or red

Causes

Plantar fasciitis is caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot and connects the heel bone to the toes. The plantar fascia provides support for the arch of the foot and helps to absorb shock when we walk or run.

There are several factors that can contribute to the development of plantar fasciitis, including:

1. Overuse: Repetitive activities such as running, walking, or standing for long periods of time can put stress on the plantar fascia and lead to inflammation.

2. Improper Footwear: Wearing shoes that do not provide adequate support or cushioning for the heel and arch can increase the risk of plantar fasciitis.

3. Age: As we get older, the plantar fascia can become less flexible and more prone to injury.

4. Obesity: Carrying extra weight puts additional stress on the feet and can increase the risk of plantar fasciitis.

5. Biomechanical Factors: Having flat feet or high arches can change the way weight is distributed across the foot and can increase the risk of plantar fasciitis.

6. Occupation: Jobs that require a lot of standing or walking on hard surfaces, or jobs that require a lot of physical activity can increase the risk of plantar fasciitis.

Complications

If left untreated, plantar fasciitis can lead to complications, such as:

1. Chronic Heel Pain: The pain from plantar fasciitis can become chronic if the condition is not treated. This can lead to difficulty walking and difficulty participating in daily activities.

2. Loss of Mobility: The pain and stiffness associated with plantar fasciitis can make it difficult to walk or stand for long periods of time, leading to a loss of mobility.

3. Development of other Foot Problems: Plantar fasciitis can lead to the development of other foot problems, such as heel spurs (bony growths on the heel bone) or other types of heel pain.

4. Reduced Quality of Life: Chronic heel pain and limited mobility can negatively impact a person's overall quality of life, making it difficult to participate in activities they enjoy.

It's important to note that these complications can be avoided or minimized by seeking early treatment for plantar fasciitis and following a treatment plan recommended by a healthcare provider.

Plantar Fasciitis Treatment

Treatment for plantar fasciitis typically includes a combination of self-care measures and physical therapy. The goal of treatment is to reduce inflammation and pain, and to improve the flexibility and strength of the foot and ankle. Some common treatment options include:

1. Rest and Ice: Reducing activity and applying ice to the affected area can help to reduce pain and inflammation.

2. Orthotic Inserts or Customized Insoles: These devices can provide support for the arch of the foot and help to redistribute pressure away from the heel. They can be custom-made by a podiatrist or orthotist or can be bought over the counter. The efficacy of custom made inserts will be more than those bought over the counter.

3. Stretching exercises: Stretching the calf muscles and the plantar fascia can help to improve flexibility and reduce tension on the heel.

4. Physical therapy: A physical therapist can teach you exercises to strengthen the muscles in your foot and leg and improve your balance.

5. Medications: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help to reduce pain and inflammation.

6. Corticosteroid Injection: In some cases, a corticosteroid injection may be used to reduce inflammation.

7. Night Splints: Wearing a night splint can help to stretch the plantar fascia while you sleep.

8. Shock Wave Therapy: It is a non-invasive procedure that uses sound waves to stimulate healing of the plantar fascia.

It's important to note that recovery time can vary depending on the severity of the injury and the individual case, and it's important to see a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.

If you or a loved one has plantar fasciitis, visit TheRehabStreet Clinic in Gurgaon for proper diagnosis and treatment. For appointments and queries, call +91-9354919385.