Plantar fasciitis is a highly incapacitating condition that can greatly affect one’s quality of life. However, there are various measures that can be taken to alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with this condition. It is advisable to limit physical activity and give your feet ample rest. Additionally, Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be utilized as effective pain relievers. Another helpful method is regularly applying ice to the affected area. By implementing these strategies, you can significantly reduce the symptoms of plantar fasciitis and enhance your overall well-being.
Reducing physical activity
Reducing physical activity is one of the worst things you can do if you have plantar fasciitis. This condition affects approximately 2 million patients a year in the US healthcare system. One of the main symptoms to look out for is pain in the bottom of the foot.
Although the majority of plantar fasciitis cases resolve on their own, there are instances where the condition may persist. If you find that your symptoms keep returning, it is advisable to consult with your doctor. They can provide guidance on various medical treatments or surgical options that may be beneficial in managing your condition.
In addition to preventing the condition from reoccurring, stretching exercises and strengthening activities can also help improve the foot’s flexibility. They can reduce inflammation, which can improve the way the foot functions.
Noninvasive measures can include exercise, stretches, and the use of athletic tape or night splints. These treatments can be done at home and can last for up to two or three months. Combine them with resting the foot to achieve the most optimal results.
Other options include taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs. These drugs can help alleviate the pain of plantar fasciitis during the initial period of recovery. However, they should not be taken for more than two weeks at a time.
Icing
Despite its popularity, icing is not the best treatment for plantar fasciitis. In fact, it may actually worsen the condition. Luckily, there are some tricks you can try to treat your foot pain, including using an ice pack, taking a warm bath, and stretching.
A simple, inexpensive, and surprisingly effective ice pack can be made from crushed ice in a plastic bag. Place the ice on your heel for a few minutes. This should be repeated several times a day. The cold may also help reduce inflammation and swelling.
Another popular treatment is to take a contrast bath. In a contrast bath, you alternate hot and cold temperatures. This can increase circulation, help your body to rid itself of inflammatory fluid, and prevent new inflammatory fluid from accumulating.
It can also help to stretch your plantar fascia. It is a good idea to focus on the arch of the foot around the injured area. You can massage the toes and feet with a thumb, and even push your thumbs into the center of your arch.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
Taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may help to reduce the pain and inflammation associated with plantar fasciitis. However, you should make sure you follow all instructions on the medication.
Corticosteroids are another type of anti-inflammatory medicine. They have a powerful anti-inflammatory effect and can be injected directly into the plantar fascia. They have to be used sparingly because they can lead to high blood pressure. They also have the potential to cause weight gain.
Ice therapy can be effective in reducing the inflammation and swelling associated with plantar fasciitis. You should ice the affected area for at least 15 minutes. If the ice does not penetrate the skin, wrap the ice in a towel to prevent contact.
Stretching the calf muscles can also be beneficial for those suffering from plantar fasciitis. Stretching can strengthen the lower leg muscles, which will help to stabilize the ankle and lessen the risk of injury.
Wearing supportive shoes can reduce stress on the plantar fascia. Taking part in low impact activities such as yoga or swimming can also reduce the chances of developing plantar fasciitis.
Surgery
Surgical intervention for plantar fasciitis is not always necessary. However, for some patients, surgery can be a helpful tool in relieving their pain.
Usually, surgery is done as an outpatient procedure. The procedure can be performed under local or general anesthesia. The surgeon will make an incision on the foot to expose the plantar fascia. The incisions will be sutured. After a few hours, the patient will be released.
In some cases, injections can provide temporary relief. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may also be prescribed. These medications help reduce the inflammation and pain associated with plantar fasciitis.
Other treatment options include physical therapy, stretching, and strengthening exercises. If the pain does not respond to these treatments, a cortisone injection may be used.
In the case of chronic or severe plantar fasciitis, extracorporeal shock wave therapy is sometimes recommended. This is a method that uses an ultrasound probe to break up the damaged tissue. X-rays can be taken to determine if a stress fracture is present.
You might also like to read:
Plantar Fasciitis so bad I can’t walk
