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Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar Fasciitis is
an inflammation caused by excessive stretching of the plantar fascia. The
plantar fascia is a broad band of fibrous tissue which runs along the
bottom surface of the foot, attaching at the bottom of the heel bone and
extending to the forefoot. When the plantar fascia is excessively
stretched, this can cause plantar fasciitis, which can also lead to heel
pain, arch pain, and heel spurs.
CAUSE
Plantar Fasciitis often leads to heel pain, heel spurs, and/or arch pain.
The excessive stretching of the plantar fascia that leads to the
inflammation and discomfort can be caused by the following:
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Over-pronation (flat feet) which results in
the arch collapsing upon weight bearing
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A
foot with an unusually high arch
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A
sudden increase in physical activity
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Excessive weight on the foot, usually attributed
to obesity or pregnancy
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Improperly fitting footwear
Over-pronation (flat feet) is the leading cause of plantar fasciitis.
Over-pronation occurs in the walking process, when a person’s arch
collapses upon weight bearing, causing the plantar fascia to be stretched
away from the heel bone.
With Plantar Fasciitis, the bottom of your foot usually hurts near the
inside of the foot where the heel and arch meet. The pain is often acute
either first thing in the morning or after a long rest, because while
resting the plantar fascia contracts back to its original shape. As the
day progresses and the plantar fascia continues to be stretched, the pain
often subsides.
TREATMENT & PREVENTION
The key for the proper treatment of plantar fasciitis is determining what
is causing the excessive stretching of the plantar fascia. When the cause
is over-pronation (flat feet), an orthotic with rearfoot posting and
longitudinal arch support is an effective device to reduce the
over-pronation and allow the condition to heel.
If you have usually high arches, which can also lead to plantar fasciitis,
cushion the heel, absorb shock and wear proper footwear that will
accommodate and comfort the foot.
Other common treatments include stretching exercises, plantar fasciitis
night splints, wearing shoes that have a cushioned heel to absorb shock,
and elevating the heel with the use of a heel cradle or heel cup. Heel
cradles and heel cups provide extra comfort, cushion the heel, and reduce
the amount of shock and shear forces placed during everyday activities.
Every time your foot strikes the ground, the plantar fascia is stretched.
You can reduce the strain and stress on the plantar fascia by following
these simple instructions: Avoid running on hard or uneven ground, lose
any excess weight, and wear shoes and orthotics that support your arch to
prevent over-stretching of the plantar fascia.
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