What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that connects your heel bone to your toes and supports your foot's arch.
Common Symptoms
- Sharp heel pain, especially with first steps in the morning
- Pain that worsens after prolonged standing or activity
- Increased discomfort after (not during) exercise
- Tenderness on the bottom of the heel
Risk Factors
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Age: Most common between 40-60 years
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Activity Level:
- Long-distance runners
- Athletes with repetitive impact activities
- People who stand for long periods
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Physical Factors:
- Obesity or sudden weight gain
- High arches or flat feet
- Tight Achilles tendons
Diagnosis
Diagnosis typically involves:
- Physical examination
- Medical history review
- Evaluation of pain patterns
- Sometimes imaging (X-rays or MRI) to rule out other conditions
Treatment Options
Conservative Treatments
- Rest and activity modification
- Ice therapy
- Stretching exercises
- Supportive footwear
- Night splints
- Over-the-counter pain medications
Professional Interventions
- Physical therapy
- Custom orthotics
- Corticosteroid injections
- Extracorporeal shock wave therapy
Prevention Strategies
- Maintain healthy weight
- Wear properly fitting shoes
- Regular stretching
- Gradual increase in exercise intensity
- Replace worn athletic shoes
When to Seek Medical Care
Consult a healthcare provider if:
- Pain persists beyond several weeks
- Pain severely impacts daily activities
- You develop fever or swelling
- You have diabetes and heel pain