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Plantar fasciitis (pronounced
PLAN-tar fashee-EYE-tiss) is one of the most common causes of heel pain. Most
often seen in athletes, obese people, and persons whose jobs require a
considerable amount of walking or standing (especially on hard surfaces), the
condition results from inflammation of the plantar fascia, a broad,
ligament-like structure that extends from the calcaneus to the base of the toes.
Inadequate flexibility in the calf muscles, lack of
arch supports or poor shoes, excess weight or repetitive stress can cause small tears in the fascia, leading
to sometimes severe pain that can take several months to resolve.
The plantar fascia encapsulates muscles in the
bottom of the foot, but it also supports the arch of the foot by acting as a
bowstring that connects the ball of the foot to the heel. It endures
tension that is approximately 2 times body weight during walking at the
moment when the heel of the trailing leg begins to lift off the ground.
This moment of maximum tension is increased and "sharpened" (it increases
suddenly) if there is lack of flexibility in the calf muscles.
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Traditional therapies for plantar fasciitis vary depending on the degree of
the condition and the person being treated. Symptoms usually resolve more
quickly when the time between the onset of symptoms and the beginning of
treatment is as short as possible. If treatment is delayed, the complete
resolution of symptoms may take 6-18 months or more. Treatment will
typically begin by correcting training errors, which usually requires some
degree of rest, the use of ice after activities, and an evaluation of the
patient’s shoes and activities. More common forms of treatment include anti-inflammatory drugs
but more subtle and sometimes more effective care is massage, ultrasound or iontophoresis ,
stretching and strengthening, and arch supports or orthotics. More severe
cases can require injections or even surgery.
Dietary and lifestyle modifications may include
reduced intake of citrus fruits to improve mineral balance,
elimination of alcohol, caffeine and processed sugars to improve bodies own
healing capabilities, and other Beneficial Dietary Supplements. Intermittent
hot and cold foot baths and ice massages can also help. Besides orthotics,
wearing well-made, comfortable shoes whenever possible. Substituting running
or walking with bicycling and swimming to lessen stress and strain on the
feet. However, none of these modalities is considered more
effective than another, and occasionally, patients will develop chronic,
disabling symptoms despite the best efforts. |
