Plantar Fasciitis? What does that mean?
Plantar Fasciitis is a condition caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia, the band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot. This condition can cause severe pain and disrupt your daily life. It is the most commonly seen foot issue at clinics and we recommend prompt treatment.
Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis include:
Morning pain when taking your first steps or after sitting for long periods
Sharp or burning pain in the heel or arch while walking
Increased pain with prolonged standing or walking
Pain that worsens after physical activity
While there is no single cause of Plantar Fasciitis, certain risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing this condition, such as:
Shoe choice: People who wear sandals without proper support during the summer are at a higher risk.
Arch height: Those with either high or low arches are more susceptible to Plantar Fasciitis.
Increased exercise: Sudden changes in physical activity can put stress on the feet if proper precautions are not taken.
Obesity: Excessive weight places added strain on the arch.
Occupation: Jobs that require standing or sitting for long periods can impact foot mechanics.
Decreased calf flexibility: Directly linked to Plantar Fasciitis.
If you have ever experienced plantar fasciitis in your life, even for a short time, you know how painful it can be. If you start noticing a little bit of pain in your feet, do not ignore it and hope it goes away as it can become chronic and will take even longer to treat. Before visiting your doctor, try these simple stretches/exercises to see if they will alleviate your symptoms.
Stretch your calves
Roll a ball or frozen water bottle under your foot.
If the pain in your feet lasts longer then a few days, don't wait for it to get worse. Start immediately with the exercises, mentioned above. If these exercises are not effective, visit a specialist for a proper assessment and treatment, such as foot orthotics.
