Experiencing pain and stiffness in the heel can be a result of overloading or irritation of the plantar fascia. This discomfort is especially noticeable in the morning upon waking up, but can also occur after prolonged periods of sitting or standing. If you’re looking for more information on how to alleviate this issue, check out this resource on plantar fasciitis.
If you’re experiencing discomfort, there are several straightforward remedies you can try at home. However, if these techniques prove ineffective or if you suspect an underlying issue, it is advisable to schedule an appointment with your podiatrist.
Symptoms
One commonly experienced foot ailment is plantar fasciitis. This condition causes discomfort in the thick tissue, called fascia, that runs along the underside of the foot. The fascia is connected to the heel bone and extends to the toes.
It supports your arch and helps you walk properly, distributing your weight evenly across your foot. However, overuse or injury can cause the plantar fascia to become damaged and irritated.
Symptoms usually begin with a sharp, achy pain that is worse after getting out of bed or taking your first steps. The pain may also be worse when you are standing for long periods of time.
The risk factors for developing plantar fasciitis include flat feet, high arches, sudden weight gain or increased activity. These factors put added stress on the plantar fascia and tendons, which are attached to the heel bone and the base of the toes.
Diagnosis
The most common symptom of plantar fasciitis is pain in the bottom of the foot near the heel. It usually gets worse when you first get out of bed in the morning (known as “first-step pain”) and can be aggravated by standing or sitting for long periods.
Your doctor will examine your feet and look for areas of tenderness to help diagnose plantar fasciitis. Occasionally, your provider may order X-rays or other tests to make sure another problem isn’t causing your pain.
The most common risk factors for developing plantar fasciitis include obesity, sudden weight gain, running and a tight Achilles tendon. However, this condition can affect people of all ages and genders.
Treatment
Fortunately, almost all cases of plantar fasciitis improve with simple treatment methods such as activity modification, anti-inflammatory medications, and stretching. Patients often experience relief after a period of 3-6 months.
In rare cases, when nonsurgical treatments fail to relieve pain, surgery may be recommended by an orthopaedic foot and ankle specialist. Penn orthopaedic foot and ankle specialists are highly skilled at several techniques, including platelet-rich plasma injections, therapeutic ultrasound, and extracorporeal shock wave therapy (EWST).
Most people with plantar fasciitis find that a multi-pronged approach to treatment involving activity modification, anti-inflammatory medication, stretching, and an in-shoe orthosis works to relieve their pain. Weight loss, which can reduce stress on the feet, is another important factor in preventing and treating heel pain caused by plantar fasciitis.
Prevention
The plantar fascia is a band of connective tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot and supports the arch. It also absorbs shock when you walk.
Overuse and repetitive stress on the fascia may cause small tears and inflammation that result in heel pain. Over time, this can lead to a more serious condition called plantar fasciitis.
To help prevent this condition, it is important to choose shoes that support your feet and include adequate arch support. In addition, make sure you are doing exercises that stretch your calf muscles and plantar fascia.
Obesity is another risk factor. People who are overweight put extra pressure on their feet and can increase the chances of developing plantar fasciitis.
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