What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Our feet are probably the most used but most ignored parts of our body. During the day, an average person will spend about 12 to 14 hours on his/her feet. Because the feet are used so much in daily activities, it is not surprising that the feet may become injured from time to time. Approximately 75% of people around the world suffer from foot pain at some stage in their lives. Foot pain can really affect a person’s daily activity. One of the most common cause of foot pain is plantar fasciitis.

The plantar fascia is a thick band of fibrous tissue found underneath the foot. It attaches to the calcaneous bone or heel bone to the metatarsals for the feet. It is responsible for maintaining the arch of the foot and acts like a shock absorber. Plantar fasciitis occurs because of extreme stress to the foot, causing micro injuries to the plantar fascia, making it inflamed and tender causing mild to severe foot pain.

Symptoms

•  Pain is worst when taking first steps after long rest like taking the first step when getting out of bed in the morning or after a long drive.
• Pain is felt underneath the foot
• Pain lessens upon using the foot, but pain may then gradually increase.
• Resting eases the pain
• Stretching the underside of the foot can be painful

Causes

• People who are runners, sprinters or engaged in any sport that involve tremendous stress to the foot
• Obese people commonly have plantar fasciitis
• The use of wrong footwear

Treatment

• Rest – resting the foot is the primary goal in treating plantar fasciitis. This allows the micro injuries to heal. Depending on the severity, it will take a few days to several months to treat plantar fasciitis.
• Ice - applying cold stimuli can help reduce pain and swelling.
• Compress – applying an elastic bandage help decrease the swelling and it immobilizes the foot for faster healing
• Elevate – elevating the foot above the heart is a good way to reduce swelling. This will prevent pooling for fluids to the affected foot.