Athletes are at an increased risk of developing plantar fasciitis, a painful condition that affects the arch and heel. It is caused by repeated motion and can make the athlete’s running or jumping difficult or even dangerous. It may also lead to collagen fibers weakening and soft tissue damage. For these reasons, athletes are often more likely to seek treatment. Athletes also benefit from more effective treatment options, including rest and strengthening their calf and foot muscles.
Athletes are particularly at risk for plantar fasciitis, because the tendon that connects the heel to the ball of the foot absorbs tremendous pressure. Runners and other athletes who are constantly on their feet and perform repetitive movements for long periods of time are also at high risk of developing the condition. Fortunately, there are treatments available for plantar fasciitis, but they do not guarantee a complete recovery.
Athletes who experience pain in the heel should seek evaluation as soon as possible. They should wear supportive shoes and gradually increase their activities while monitoring the surfaces they use to train. Fortunately, treatment for plantar fasciitis is effective for most patients, but if the athlete returns to training too early, the condition may recur. In this case, physicians may recommend non-impact training, such as walking or swimming, or suggest other non-impact activities. Athletes should not continue to train if they are suffering from this condition.
The symptoms of plantar fasciitis can be difficult to recognize. Some individuals experience severe pain in the heel when they first wake up in the morning. During sleep, the ankle is at a 90-degree angle, which allows the plantar fascia to shorten. When the ankles are awake, however, they are at an angle of 90 degrees, and this forces the plantar fasciae to stretch and can lead to pain in the heel.
Fortunately, treatment for this condition is effective for most athletes. Athletes who suffer from plantar fasciitis should seek evaluation immediately and begin cross-training to reduce the pain and inflammation. In many cases, the symptoms can improve with conservative treatment. Athletes should avoid training through pain until the symptoms have resolved. It is important to seek medical care as early as possible, as the treatment for this condition can be lengthy and costly.
Although plantar fasciitis is a common injury in athletes, weekend warriors are at higher risk than athletes who specialize in one sport. Athletes with plantar fasciitis should wear specialized shoes, which are designed to support the arch and heel. Athletes who have suffered from this condition should try to avoid over-extending their Achilles and plantar fascia. In some cases, the symptoms can be so severe that they can become incapacitated.
Runners are at risk for plantar fasciitis because they spend so much time on their feet. In fact, eight percent of all runners will suffer from this condition. The causes of plantar fasciitis are multifactorial. Obesity and long hours of standing are both known to contribute to the condition. Athletes with poor footwear tend to experience more pain than those who do not. Athletes who do not wear proper shoes can risk a recurring infection of the plantar fascia.
Runners with plantar fasciitis should seek evaluation before returning to their sport. They should wear supportive shoes and monitor their training surfaces. The treatment for plantar fasciitis can be lengthy, and an athlete should not return to training until the symptoms are gone. Athletes may also experience discomfort in their heels. While the pain will decrease as they warm up, it can return to the injured area. Athletes who do not have a diagnosis should consult their physician.
Athletes with plantar fasciitis should seek evaluation as soon as possible. Athletes should wear supportive footwear to avoid aggravating the problem. It is crucial to not continue training with pain, as it may aggravate the condition. Moreover, it is important to take good care of your feet. For example, you should not wear sandals during the summer or wear flat shoes in the winter. The right footwear can prevent the symptoms and help you train without suffering from pain.
