Plantar fasciitis is a common injury that affects the heel of a person’s foot. The arches of the feet are supported by a tough and fibrous tissue known as the plantar fascia and when this tissue is used repetitively, injury may occur. It can be easy to overuse the feet, especially when participating in activities such as sporting events. Hence, plantar fasciitis is more commonly found in athletes or others who are constantly using their feet for long durations. With excessive use, the planar fascia will eventually give in and this condition may also be progressive. Runners, joggers and those who are known to participate in similar activities need to ensure that they do not damage this important band of tissue. In addition, body weight could be a factor that leads to the occurrence of plantar fasciitis. If a person is overweight, the feet and subsequently the plantar fascia tissue could become overwhelmed. Improper footwear could also cause a strain on the plantar fascia tissue and this could gradually become severe over time.
Know the Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis
An injury to the plantar fascia can manifest in different ways. Initially, it may be a gradual pain that can progressively become worse, especially if the injured foot remains in active use. Sometimes, the pain from plantar fasciitis can be quite severe and seem like the stab of a knife of a sharp and sudden cut. The pain of plantar fasciitis may also occur more frequently after injured feet have been at rest for a while. For instance, after a person wakes up and tries to use his or her feet, pain may be experienced. It can be dangerous to ignore pain that is associated with the feet or any pain felt in the body. Sometimes, symptoms of plantar fasciitis include more subtle pain that may appear as a throbbing sensation which may be radial in nature or isolated to a particular part of the foot. If the pain from plantar fasciitis starts off mildly and is ignored, continued use of the affected foot or feet will cause further damage. The pain from plantar fasciitis is debilitating and it is essential that treatment is sought immediately.
Treating Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis needs treatment and there is hope for those who suffer from the condition. The condition should not linger and it should not be allowed to get worse. An injury to the plantar fascia is better addressed if it is detected early. Elevating and resting the affected foot can be a good treatment regimen. Hence, rest is an essential treatment protocol. There are guided exercises that could alleviate the pain of plantar fasciitis. There can also be nutritional options to use in treating plantar fasciitis. Improved mineral and vitamin intake could prove to be quite beneficial. For those with severe plantar fasciitis symptoms, medical devices including orthotic splints and stretching mechanisms could be used. Some strengthening routines and the use of ice packs may bring relief to the affected areas.
