Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of foot or heel pain. It is characterized by an inflamed thick tissue at the bottom part of the foot. The tissue connects the bone of the heel to the toes.
The condition often causes stabbing pain that usually occurs first thing in the morning with the first steps. Movement usually reduces the pain, but it can return after moments of sitting or standing for some time. Learn more about plantar fasciitis: the symptoms, causes, and treatment.
Causes of Plantar Fasciitis
It is unclear what causes plantar fasciitis, but it tends to be common among runners and overweight individuals. The fascia or the connecting tissue at the base of the foot supports the foot arch.
It helps absorb the shock while an individual is walking. When tension and stress occur on the fascia, it can result in small tears. Repeated tearing or stretching can inflame or irritate the fascia, causing the condition.
Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis
The main symptom of plantar fasciitis is a stabbing pain in the bottom of the foot. The heel pain is usually worse when you take the first steps after waking up. Long periods of standing can also cause pain. If you experience heel pain after getting up from a sitting position, you may have plantar fasciitis.
Risk Factors of Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis may happen to anyone without cause. However, some factors can increase an individual’s risk for developing the condition. The factors include:
Age.
Certain forms of exercise.
Obesity.
Certain occupations.
The formation of the foot.
Walking pattern.
People between the ages of 40 and 60 are more likely to develop the condition. Activities such as running, aerobics, and ballet dancing can lead to plantar fasciitis.
Complications of Plantar Fasciitis
Failing to treat plantar fasciitis can lead to chronic heel pain that can affect regular activities. Many people end up changing their posture and walking style to avoid pain. Changing your walking style can lead to pain in the foot, knee, or hip. The condition can also lead to back pain. It is vital to get a proper diagnosis and treatment to avoid complications.
Diagnosing Plantar Fasciitis
To diagnose plantar fasciitis, the doctor will examine your medical history. They will then carry out a physical examination. The exam will include looking for tender areas in the foot. The site of the pain will help determine the underlying cause of the pain. Diagnosis may include imaging tests such as an X-ray or MRI to rule out other foot problems.
Treating Plantar Fasciitis
Most people recover from plantar fasciitis after a few months of the conservative treatment that includes exercise and icing the foot. Stretching exercises and avoiding or modifying certain activities can help prevent pain.
Other forms of treatment include using medications, physical therapy, orthotics, night splints, crutches, canes, and walking boots. In some cases, surgery, injections, and shock wave therapy may treat the condition.
If you suspect that you may have plantar fasciitis, visit a healthcare provider for a diagnosis. You can receive tips on remedies to reduce the pain. Making some lifestyle changes can help treat the condition.
For more on plantar fasciitis, visit Podiatrist On-Call at our office in Jacksonville, Florida. You can call (904) 707-8769 today to schedule an appointment.