The Science Behind Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is a prevalent condition that can cause discomfort in the feet. It occurs when the thick, fibrous tissue connecting the heel bone to the toes, called the fascia, becomes inflamed. This inflammation can lead to a tingling sensation in both feet. It is important to address and treat this condition in order to alleviate the discomfort and prevent further complications.

Diagnosing plantar fasciitis involves a comprehensive assessment by doctors, incorporating various factors such as symptom analysis, medical background, and physical activity level. They will closely inquire about your symptoms and carefully consider your medical history to determine the likelihood of plantar fasciitis. Additionally, they will take into account your level of physical activity, as this can contribute to the development and severity of the condition. By combining these factors, doctors can accurately diagnose plantar fasciitis and provide appropriate treatment recommendations.

Biomechanics

The field of biomechanics delves into the intricate science behind the movement and motives of the human body. Its applications are manifold, serving purposes such as enhancing the design of performance-oriented sports gear and dissecting individuals’ physical movements to guide them towards achieving their full potential.

Movement puts the human body under strain, leading to stress and tension.

When the body is put through too much strain, it can become injured. That is why it is essential to know how to move your body correctly so as not to cause yourself any unnecessary injuries.

Plantar fasciitis is believed to occur when excessive traction forces are applied to the calcaneus, leading to pain and possibly spurting growth at its insertion point. This occurs because under certain conditions, the calcaneus is unstable, creating high tension and stress on its tissues – leading to repetitive microtrauma and inflammation.

Inflammation

Inflammation is the body’s response to injury or infection. It involves a series of events that lead to swollen tissues, increased blood flow and the release of chemicals known as cytokines.

Additionally, inflammation releases white blood cells that swarm the affected area and consume bacteria, viruses and other pathogens to kill them. This process promotes healing by signaling your immune system to produce hormones, proteins and other substances necessary for repair of damaged tissue.

Over time, inflammation can exacerbate plantar fasciitis. It may lead to microtears in the plantar fascia ligament, making it more vulnerable to partial thickness tears or complete ruptures of this ligament.

Increased risks include weight gain, high-impact exercise (particularly running) and wearing old or worn-out shoes. To minimize stress on your plantar fascia, maintain a healthy weight and switch up your shoes for ones that cushion and support the arch of your foot.

Tension

Tension, or contact force, is a type of common force. It occurs when two strings, ropes or wires are pulled taut by opposing forces at their opposite ends.

Physics’ law of universal action and reaction provides the basis for tension: force is equal to mass divided by object’s acceleration.

Exercise, calf stretches and other stretching exercises can reduce pain in your plantar fascia and promote faster healing. Your podiatrist may suggest these stretches as part of their treatment plan for you.

If calf stretches do not provide relief from your heel pain, surgery to lengthen your gastrocnemius muscle and reduce pressure on the plantar fascia may be an option. Studies have indicated that this procedure, known as gastrocnemius recession, may be effective for some individuals with recalcitrant plantar fasciitis; however, more research needs to be conducted before this type of surgery can be recommended for all those suffering from persistent heel discomfort.

Genetics

Genetics is the study of heredity, or how traits are passed from generation to generation. As such, it intersects with many fields such as agriculture, medicine and biotechnology.

Plantar fasciitis is a condition that causes pain in the heel and bottom of the foot. It may occur if the plantar fascia stretches too much.

People with flat feet or very low arches tend to roll their feet in while walking, placing additional stress on the plantar fascia.

Athletes such as runners or other athletes are particularly at risk for developing plantar fasciitis due to the strain they put on their plantar fascia and calf muscles. Maintaining a healthy body weight can also help protect you against this condition.