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Unfortunately,
if left untreated,
Plantar Fasciitis
can become a
chronic problem. |
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Some people can’t pronounce it. Other people can’t spell it. But many
people suffer from it. Plantar Fasciitis is one of the most commonly
treated foot ailments at our pedorthic facilities.
Sometimes diagnosed as a heel spur, or heel spur syndrome, this
condition is more accurately referred to as “heel pain syndrome.”
Plantar fascia is a band of fibrous tissue that runs the entire length
of the bottom (plantar surface) of the foot, beginning at the heel
bone (calcaneus) and extending to the base of the toes (metatarsal
joints).
When the fascia tissue becomes inflamed, or micro fibers are torn, the
body tries to protect it by plastering the fascia with calcium. This,
in turn, is how a heel spur can form. The calcium forms a fish
hook-like spur on the base of the heel bone in an attempt to maintain
its connection with fascia tissue...hence...a heel spur, heel pain
diagnosis.
When suffering from this condition, remember to put on shoes or
sandals before jumping out of bed. That first unprotected step in the
morning can disrupt whatever healing occurred overnight. Avoid going
barefoot.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar Fasciitis is an overuse injury caused by excessive stretching
of the plantar fascia. This excessive stretching can cause the tiny
fibers of the fascia to tear in spots and become very inflamed.
Plantar Fasciitis has many causes. Among the most common are:
● Tight heel cords; as they cause an inordinate stretch of the plantar
fascia
● Over-pronation (flat feet); causing the arch to collapse while
walking or running.
● A very high-arched foot; in which the plantar fascia is stretched
taut with every step.
● Stiff-soled shoes
● Worn-out shoes that no longer support the foot
● Improper shoe selection or fit
● A sudden change in activity (i.e. going from a sit-down job to a
standing job)
● A sudden change in level of physical activity (i.e. beginning an
exercise program too vigorously)
● A sudden change in environment (i.e. switching from standing on
carpet all day to concrete)
● Excessive weight on feet, usually pregnancy or obesity
● Interestingly enough, women are at a greater risk for developing
Plantar Fasciitis than men
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What Sort of Treatment is Available?
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About 90% of the patients improve significantly within
two months of
starting treatment |
The first step is to consult a physician. Plantar Fasciitis is not the
only cause of heel pain. It is a common cause, but there are many
things such as a heel spur, a stone bruise or tendonitis that could be
mistaken for plantar fasciitis. It is best to let a doctor sort it
out.
The first and most obvious treatment is rest. Rest is helpful, but is
often a short-term solution. A physician may prescribe anti-inflammatories,
but this too, does not usually represent a long-term answer.
The key to solving the plantar fascia problem is alleviating or at
least reducing the stresses on the fascia. This is done most commonly
with heel-cord stretching exercises and arch supports. Splints that
keep the foot and ankle stretched out at night are sometimes useful.
The physician may refer the patient to a therapist for help with the
stretching program, or he may instruct the patient in a battery of
exercises himself. He may also refer the patient to a pedorthist
to
have a set of custom foot orthoses made.
A pedorthist is someone who has been specially trained in all aspects
of making, fitting, and adjusting shoes, orthoses and other foot care
devices. A pedorthist is specially educated in the area of
conservative foot treatment and is a knowledgeable resource for
patients with foot pain. Perdothists not only help patients by making
foot orthoses, but they can assist in selecting properly fitted shoes
to help reduce the effects of Plantar Fasciitis.
In severe cases, a cast may be necessary to completely eliminate the
stress on the plantar fascia. It can take a very long time for Plantar Fasciitis to resolve, but with the right treatment, it typically does.
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