Plantar Fasciitis

Are you suffering from heel pain? Is the pain at its worst first thing in the morning? You may be suffering from plantar fasciitis (PLAN-tur fas-e-I-tis).

What is plantar fasciitis?

The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot and connects your heel bone to your toes. This seemingly small tissue is responsible for supporting your full body weight and the arch of the foot. When this tissue is excessively stressed, it can stretch and tear resulting in inflammation and pain.

What are the symptoms of plantar fasciitis?

The pain associated with this condition is often described as a “hot” or “sharp” sensation in the heel. The pain is usually at its worst first thing in the morning when you stand, and lessens or disappears throughout the day. However, the pain may return after resting for a period of time and then resuming activity.

What causes plantar fasciitis?

Common causes of plantar fasciitis include:

  • Flat feet
  • High arches
  • Sudden increase in activity
  • Increased weight gain (obesity or pregnancy)
  • Poorly fitting footwear

How is plantar fasciitis treated?

There is no single cure for plantar fasciitis; however there are many treatment options to help ease the pain. In order to eliminate plantar fasciitis, the cause must be identified and corrected.

The following are possible treatments of the condition:

  • Change your footwear or add insoles (SUPERfeet) to ensure proper arch support
  • Avoid walking barefoot indoors – an athletic shoe or Birkenstock sandal provide the best support
  • If weight is a contributing factor, speak with a dietician for advice on a healthy weight loss plan
  • Rest until it is not painful – reduce the amount of activity you are doing and increase as tolerated
  • A physiotherapist can also provide care to ease symptoms of plantar fasciitis
  • Icing the area 3-4 times per day for 15 minutes can help to alleviate pain
  • An anti-inflammatory, such as ibuprofen, orally or applied topically (prepared by a compounding pharmacy such as Stafford Pharmacy & Home Healthcare) can help to alleviate pain

If you are or think you may be suffering from plantar fasciitis speak with a member of our pharmacy or home health care departments today, we can help to ease your pain.

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