One of the most common causes of foot and heel pain is plantar fasciitis. It’s an inflammatory condition involving the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot from your heel to your toes. Many people experience the pain in the morning with their first steps or with prolonged walking and standing.
Who gets plantar fasciitis and how does this happen? Plantar fasciitis can effect anyone if the risk factors are present. Take for example the upcoming warm weather that will hopefully be coming our way. Many of us will get out our sandals or flip flops, or perhaps be spending more time bare foot. This allows for an unsupported base for your foot that causes continual stress to this area. If you are a person with low arches or an overpronator this will also increase your risk. Other common causes include occupations with prolonged weight bearing on hard surfaces, rapid increase of an exercise program, improper or poor footwear and change in lifestyle from active to sedentary or vice/versa.
If addressed in the early stages with the appropriate treatment, plantar fasciitis can be easily alleviated. Physical therapy is a good option for intervention for most everyone. Treatment includes a thorough foot and ankle assessment, attention to footwear and possible needed support, education on night splints, as well as, specific exercises to address the inflamed tissue. Don’t wait for every step to hurt, take the time to address the root cause of the pain and get back on your feet.
