Foot conditions can be of
different types of which plantar fasciitis is a common one. When you feel pain
in the bottom of the heel portion then it might be related to plantar
fasciitis. The thick connective tissue which supports arch portion on
the bottom of the foot thus helping in proper movement is known as plantar
fascia. Though its prime function is to act as shock absorber it can get
damaged or inflamed due to excessive pressure on the foot portion. The end
result: stiffness, discomfort and extreme heel pain.
What causes plantar fasciitis?
Reasons are many. People
having obesity or weight gain problem are prone to plantar fasciitis. Sudden
weight gain can trigger such foot condition. This is why pregnant women often
experience bouts of plantar fascia pain. Long distance runners or those who
need to stand for long hours for job purpose can suffer from this problem too.
The age group of 40-70 who lead very active life is at highest risk level as
well. Again study shows that women usually suffer more from this particular
foot problem. There are many who tend to get affected with conditions like very
high arches or flat feet. Such situations might also result in plantar
fasciitis. Tight Achilles tendons can cause plantar fascia pain too. It is seen
that shoes having soft soles or poor arch supports can sometimes lead to
plantar fascia problem. However it is a misconception that heel spur may result
in plantar fasciitis.
How the problem is diagnosed?
It is up to the foot
specialist to detect if the patient is indeed suffering from plantar fasciitis.
A physical examination is done to check tenderness of foot and precise point of
pain. The podiatrist carries out a thorough evaluation to assess the patient’s
reflexes, muscle tones, response to touch and sight, his co-ordination and body
balance. An X-Ray or MRI is advised to check out if there is any bone fracture.
How to treat plantar fasciitis?
The basic treatment aims at
reducing inflammation. In general home remedies or stretching exercises are
suggested to take care of plantar fascia pain. In case the condition turns too
unbearable then the doctor might suggest anti-inflammatory drugs or cortisone
injections. However it is never advisable to take medicine without proper
medical advice. The extreme step is surgery which is advised only when the
condition has turned extremely severe.
Another treatment often
suggested by podiatrists is night splint which acts like brace and helps
stretch calf and the arch portion. This results in lengthening of plantar
fascia and Achilles tendon
and that too real fast. Night splints offer great relief from morning foot pain
or stiffness. Many patients get fast respite from plantar fascia pain by
shifting to specially designed orthotics or arch supports. These help
distribute foot pressure, thus preventing greater damage of plantar fascia.
Proper footwear which provides extra comfort by cushioning the heel portion and
absorbing shock has proved to be quite effective for this particular foot
problem.
Ignoring plantar fasciitis
can lead to severely painful conditions and other ailments. Hence a timely
treatment is always advised.
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