What are 7 contributing factors to plantar fasciitis?
There are several factors that increase your chances of developing this condition. These include being overweight, experiencing heel pad atrophy, getting older, and having a job that involves standing for long periods. These risk factors can cause your plantar fascia to weaken and become rigid, resulting in discomfort.
Age plays a significant role in the development of this condition. As one grows older, the likelihood of experiencing it increases. Typically, this condition is more prevalent among individuals aged 40 to 60 years. However, it is essential to note that it can affect people of all age groups.
One of the consequences of obesity is the added pressure it places on our feet, resulting in a reduction of their flexibility and strength. As a result, individuals may experience various foot issues, including the development of painful bunions or hammertoes. Therefore, maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for preserving foot health. To learn more about the impact of obesity on foot problems, click here.
Excess weight can also make it harder for you to stand for long periods of time, which can put added strain on your plantar fascia. A healthy diet and regular exercise can help keep your weight in check.
Heel spurs – Some people develop small, bony growths on the heel bone that can cause pain. Heel spurs are not a direct cause of plantar fasciitis, but they can be a sign of inflammation in the tissue that forms the plantar fascia.
Tightness in the Achilles and calf muscles can cause the plantar fascia to be overstrained. This can lead to a buildup of calcium deposits and irritation.
The tightness can cause the arch of your foot to flatten and may even lead to a shortened heel bone (calcaneum). In addition, overuse of the plantar fascia can result in a breakdown in the fibers of the tissue.
A medical history – If you have a family history of heel pain, or if it occurs after a period of inactivity or when you are overweight, talk to your doctor about the possibility of plantar fasciitis. They can run some tests to determine if you have this condition, and what you can do to prevent it.
Physical therapy – A therapist can teach you stretching and strengthening exercises that can help you relieve pain. These exercises can be done in your doctor’s office or at home, and are usually very effective.
Over-the-counter medications – Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen and aspirin can be used to treat the pain from plantar fasciitis. However, they can cause a number of side effects and should be taken only under the guidance of your physician.
Surgery – In some cases, your doctor may recommend surgery to remove part of the plantar fascia. This can be a great option in severe cases of plantar fasciitis, or when other treatments have failed.
Stretching – Learn to do stretches that improve flexibility of the calf muscles and stretch the plantar fascia. These exercises are simple and can be performed at home or in a gym, depending on your fitness level.
Other therapies – If the pain from plantar fasciitis hasn’t improved after a few months of home remedies, your doctor might recommend injections or other therapy options. These methods are typically more effective in resolving the symptoms of plantar fasciitis than surgery, and most people don’t need them to get relief.
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