The Basics About Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of pain at the bottom of the foot. This is due to the inflammation of the thick ligament that surrounds the lower part of your foot from the heel until the frontal part of the toes, this ligament is known as the plantar fascia, hence its name.

Even though there are not clear specific causes of this condition. There are certain activities that can make you prone to it mainly by overexposing the foot and harming the plantar fascia. Some of these are straining this area, to the inappropriate practice of exercises involving the foot. Wearing shoes with poor arch support, too hard or too soft soles, carrying out routine activities that involve standing up and walking for long periods can affect this, for example, working as a vendor there is a higher risk if you spend most of your time on your feet.

Some other factors that can end up causing this discomfort are related to heavyweight; carrying heavy stuff around, pregnancy, being overweight or obese are some of these. Due to the constant pressure put on the foot by a heavyweight, the plantar fascia is more vulnerable to inflammation. Also, having preexisting foot conditions where its shape is altered, such as flat feet or arches higher than normal can make people more susceptible to getting this aching.

What are the symptoms?

Commonly, people with plantar fasciitis can feel a sharp or mild but constant pain in the lower food area, particularly in the lower heel. This pain is usually more intense when the person has kept the foot in a resting position for a while and then they stand up or start walking. Additionally, the inflammation worsens as the affected foot is active when it is back to a relaxed position, it causes more main in the next activity.

Treating plantar fasciitis

To discard that the pain is not being caused by an external factor, doctors may suggest an X-ray or an MRI. This inflammation may be treated at home at an early stage and if the pain is not too intense to interrupt daily activities. Some recommendations to alleviate the pain and reduce the inflammation include gentle stretching exercises, icing the area a few times a day, wearing comfortable shoes, not putting pressure on our foot, and getting enough rest. Painkillers in moderation could also be useful to ease the soreness.

However, if your symptoms worsen and the pain becomes more intense, to a point it affects your daily activities, you must see a doctor. Some signs that you need to consult an expert include having a tingling sensation in your foot, if the pain does not go away after following the above-mentioned recommendations or if you suffer chronic disease.

Orthopedic Corner | Leon Mead MD Orthopedic Doctor | 730 Goodlette Road North, Suite 201  Naples Florida 34102 | Phone: (239) 262-1119