Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar Fasciitis is a persistent pain located on the plantar (bottom) surface of the foot.

The plantar fascia is a fibrous, tendon-like structure that extends the entire length of the bottom of the foot, beginning at the heel bone and extending to the base of the toes. During excessive activity the plantar fascia can become irritated, inflamed and may even tear if the area is subjected to repetitive stress. Heel contact during the gait cycle exposes the medial-plantar aspect of the heel, where the plantar fascia attaches to the heel bone.

Symptoms:

• Pain in  morning during first few steps subsiding with prolonged walking
• Pain during athletic activity in the beginning and subsiding with activity.

 Causation:

•  High-arch, rigid foot more susceptible
• Flat, pronated foot more susceptible
•  Improper shoes.
  • Too stiff-soled
  • Overworn shoes allowing overpronation
   
•  Most common cause is sudden increase in the amount or intensity of activity within a short period of time.

Short Term Treatment:

•  Elimination of external causative factors.
• Medical exam, gait analysis and x-rays to check for a heel spur
• Ice application.
• Taping
•  Complete rest or a reduction in exercise.
•  Physical therapy
  • whirlpool
  • ultrasound.
• Anti-inflammatory medication such as Ibuprofen.
•  Prescrition anti-inflammatory medication
• Cortisone injections.

Long Term Treatment:

 In cases that are persistent,

• Orthotic devices
  •  High arches require softer orthotics for shock absorption.
  •  Flattened arches require a more rigid orthosis to control pronation.
• Plantar fascia and calf muscle stretching exercises.