What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot, connecting your heel bone to your toes. This crucial ligament supports the arch of your foot and absorbs shock during walking, running, and other activities.
What are the symptoms?
When your Plantar Fascia becomes inflamed, it is usually something that does not go unnoticed. Many people experience symptoms such as intense heel pain, especially in the morning or after long periods of rest. Typically, this pain is described as a stabbing or throbbing type of pain at the bottom of your foot, near the heel area. The pain can also be triggered or worsen with walking, running and even performing daily activities.
Diagnosing Plantar Fasciitis:
If you suspect you have plantar fasciitis, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis. A simple consultation with an orthopaedic doctor will talk through your medical history, give you a physical examination that will include examining your foot and checking the areas of tenderness and swelling.
For a definitive diagnosis, you will often be referred for imaging such as X-ray or MRI scan that will rule out anything else that may be going on such as a stress fracture.
What are the risk factors for plantar fasciitis?
There are several factors can increase the risk of developing plantar fasciitis. These risk factors may contribute to the excessive strain or stress on the plantar fascia, leading to inflammation and heel pain. While having one or more of these risk factors doesn’t guarantee the development of plantar fasciitis, they may increase the likelihood. Common risk factors include:
Age: Plantar fasciitis is more common in middle-aged individuals, typically between the ages of 40 and 60. However, it can occur at any age.
Foot Structure: Abnormal foot structures, such as flat feet (pronation) or high arches, can affect the distribution of weight on the feet, leading to increased strain on the plantar fascia.
Improper Footwear: Wearing shoes with inadequate arch support, poor cushioning, or insufficient shock absorption can contribute to plantar fasciitis. High heels and shoes with worn-out soles may also increase the risk.
Occupational Factors: Jobs that involve prolonged periods of standing or walking on hard surfaces, as well as jobs that require non-supportive footwear, may increase the risk of plantar fasciitis.
Physical Activity: Participating in activities that involve repetitive impact on the feet, such as running, dancing, or aerobic exercises, can contribute to plantar fasciitis. Sudden increases in activity levels or overtraining without proper conditioning may also be a risk factor.
Obesity or Excess Weight: Carrying excess body weight puts additional strain on the plantar fascia, increasing the risk of inflammation and heel pain.
Certain Medical Conditions: Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and spondyloarthritis can increase the risk of plantar fasciitis. Additionally, having a history of previous foot injuries may be a contributing factor.
It’s important to note that individual susceptibility varies, and some people may develop plantar fasciitis without having all of these risk factors.
What are the treatment options for plantar fasciitis?
First things first, it is important to rest and ice your foot. Resting the affected foot helps reduce inflammation. Applying ice to the area for 15-20 minutes several times a day can help alleviate pain.
Gentle stretching exercises, particularly for the Achilles tendon and calf muscles, can improve flexibility and reduce strain on the plantar fascia. It is also advised for some to invest in custom or over-the-counter shoe inserts as they can provide additional support and help distribute pressure evenly across the foot.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, can help manage pain and inflammation.
If you are under an orthopaedic specialist, they may refer you to a physiotherapist who will guide you through tailored exercises and stretches to strengthen the muscles of the feet and legs. It is also possible to self-refer to a physiotherapist.
In many cases, your orthopaedic specialist may recommend corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation. Sometimes other interventions such as PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) injections, Shockwave Therapy and even surgery might be necessary.
Conclusion:
Understanding plantar fasciitis, from its symptoms to diagnosis, treatment options, and prevention measures, is crucial for managing this common foot condition. By adopting a comprehensive approach that includes lifestyle changes, proper footwear, and targeted exercises, individuals can not only find relief from plantar fasciitis but also take proactive steps to prevent its recurrence. If you’re experiencing persistent foot pain, consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance and treatment.
Here are our lower limb and foot and ankle specialists at LSO