An inflammation of the plantar fascia in your foot is called Plantar Fasciitis. Stretching from your heel to the ball of your foot and your toes, the plantar fascia is a robust, fibrous connection that resembles a ligament. The arch on the bottom of your foot is formed by the plantar fascia, which joins the bones of your foot together. Heel pain is most frequently caused by Plantar Fasciitis.
When your plantar fascia is overused or overextended, it might result in Plantar Fasciitis. Your plantar fascia may swell as a result of any damage. Walking or using your foot hurts because of this inflammation.
Plantar fasciitis is very common. Although it can happen to both of your feet at once, plantar fasciitis typically affects one foot at a time.
Some of the pains you may experience as a result of Plantar Fasciitis are as follows:
- Soreness while getting up or sitting down. After a few minutes of walking, the pain normally subsides.
- A dull, persistent pain.
- Piercing or stabbing pain when applying pressure to your heel or using the affected foot.
- While moving or exercising may help you feel better in the short term, the pain will almost always return as soon as you stop.
What are the symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis?
The most typical signs of Plantar Fasciitis are:
- Having heel pain.
- Pain in your foot’s arch.
- Stiffness.
- Swelling around your heel.
- A stiff Achilles tendon.
What causes plantar fasciitis?
Plantar Fasciitis is caused by anything that irritates or destroys your plantar fascia, such as:
- Being on your feet all day at work.
- Playing sports.
- Exercise or work on a hard surface.
- Exercise without stretching or warming up.
- Wearing shoes that provide little foot support.
- Walking or standing barefoot at home.
Plantar fasciitis can also be caused by a variety of health issues, including high arch feet, flat feet, and obesity.
How is plantar fasciitis diagnosed?
Plantar fasciitis will be diagnosed by a healthcare provider through a physical examination. They’ll ask about your symptoms and examine your foot. They may lightly press on your plantar fascia to detect inflammation and determine your level of pain.
How can you avoid developing Plantar Fasciitis?
Avoiding excessive foot use is the most effective strategy to prevent plantar fasciitis. In general:
- Stretch both before and after exercise.
- Allow your feet to rest and recover after a strenuous activity or workout.
- Wear supportive footwear.
- Avoid walking barefoot on hard surfaces.
- Replace your footwear every 6 to 9 months.
If you have a medical condition that increases your chances of developing Plantar Fasciitis, you may be unable to prevent it.
How is plantar fasciitis treated?
Plantar fasciitis can normally be treated at home using over-the-counter (OTC) medications.
To lessen the likelihood of recurrent plantar fasciitis, your healthcare professional will recommend solutions for alleviating your symptoms and supporting your feet.
The most popular therapies for plantar fasciitis are:
- Over-the-counter medication
- Rest
- Icing your foot
- Wearing supportive shoes
- Massaging and stretching
In conclusion, Plantar Fasciitis is a prevalent ailment that causes heel pain. It is caused by overuse or strain to the plantar fascia, the ligament that supports your foot’s arch. Symptoms include heel discomfort, stiffness, and arch pain. While Plantar Fasciitis might be unpleasant, it is usually curable with stretching, supportive shoes, and pain relievers. Early diagnosis and treatment can help you get back on your feet faster. If you’re experiencing heel discomfort, consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment recommendations.