According to the American Podiatric Medical Association, 77 percent of Americans, over 18, suffer from foot pain at some point in their life. Approximately 2 million people in the United States will suffer from one of the most common foot pains called Plantar Fasciitis. Plantar Fasciitis causes pain at the sole of the foot, plantar heel and arch, due to the connective tissue that forms the arch of the foot becoming inflamed. The plantar fascia connects your heel to the front of your foot, which supports the arch of your foot. Tears can happen from significant tension and stress placed on this sheet of tissue.
The plantar fascia region experiences a lot of wear and tear in your daily life that can lead to a burning on the bottom of the foot. The first sign of Plantar Fasciitis is feeling like you have an uncomfortable lump in your sock. From there, it will gradually progresses into noticeable pain, and can commonly cause increased pain in the morning with the first few steps of the day. If left untreated, it can become a chronic condition that may change how you walk permanently. High arches, flat feet, and standing for long periods of time are just some of the reasons that an individual may be more prone to Plantar Fasciitis. Additionally, there are many possible causes for Plantar Fasciitis, including:
- Very high arches or very flat feet
- Regularly walking on hard surfaces
- Tight Achilles tendons
- Improper footwear/Non-supportive shoes
- Prolonged standing
- Weight gain or obesity
- Recent change in activity
- Excessive training and stretching
If you are experiencing the symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis, you should make an appointment with your local podiatrist or foot and ankle doctor to discuss further options to prevent additional pain. Treatment options that you can start right away would include activity modification, supportive shoes, arch supports, calf muscle stretching icing and anti-inflammatories. It is important to address foot pain as soon as possible to eliminate potentially serious and long lasting injuries.
Written by
Dr. Jeffrey S. Hurless
DPM, FACFAS Board Certified Foot & Ankle Surgeon/Podiatrist
Medical Director, HealthyFeetStore.com
 |
 |
|
|