What is plantar fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is a painful condition that occurs when you put too much stress on the part of the foot that runs from your heel to your toes. It's often caused by doing activities such as running or dancing that put a lot of pressure on your feet and can also happen if you stand for long periods or wear shoes that don't support your arches.
People suffering from Plantar Fasciitis will often experience the worst pain in the morning or after standing for a long time. It can feel sharp or dull, and it might even burn or feel like a stab. Sometimes there's swelling or redness too.
If you're suffering from these symptoms, it's best to see a doctor first, just to check there are no other issues causing the pain.
If you're diagnosed with plantar fasciitis, don't panic there are plenty of treatment options:
Treatment options for plantar fasciitis
Rest
Resting the affected foot can help reduce inflammation and promote healing. It is important to avoid activities that put stress on the feet, such as running or jumping, until the pain subsides.
Ice
Applying ice to the affected area can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain. It is recommended to apply ice for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day.
Stretching
Stretching exercises can help improve flexibility and reduce tension in the calf muscles and Achilles tendons, which can help alleviate pain and prevent further injury.
Shoe inserts
Shoe inserts, also known as orthotics, can provide additional support and cushioning for the feet, reducing stress on the plantar fascia.
Medications
Over-the-counter pain medications, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
Physical therapy
In some cases, physical therapy may be recommended to help improve flexibility and strength in the affected foot.
Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT)
ESWT is a non-invasive treatment that uses shock waves to promote healing in the affected area. This treatment is typically reserved for cases that do not respond to other treatments.
