Common Treatment Options for Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is becoming a major problem in this country, as it currently affects upwards of two million people each year. While there is no simple cure, there are an assortment of treatment options that if implemented correctly can help patients reduce pain, regain functionality, and hopefully recover at a much faster rate.

Plantar fasciitis is a painful condition of the foot that does not have a simple cure. There are many factors that can cause this condition or contribute to the pain. Fortunately for those who suffer from it, there are several ways to ease the discomfort and prevent further inflammation and damage.

On the bottom of the foot there is a thick tissue that connects the heel to the base of the toes. This tissue is called the plantar fascia. When it becomes inflamed, it causes shooting pain mainly in the heel. Plantar fasciitis is commonly found in athletes who do a lot of running. The repetitive impact against the hard ground can result in the inflammation of the fascia and can even cause heel spurs.

Other people who are prone to this condition are overweight individuals, or those who bear extra weight on a daily and continuous basis. Those who have an occupation that requires long periods of standing are also at a risk for plantar fasciitis. Also, calf muscles that are not flexing in an optimum way due to being weak or under used can contribute to the inflammation.

Ice therapy can provide relief, especially at the end of the physical activity that causes the inflammation. Doing stretching exercises each morning will help prevent further injury. Rotate the foot and stretch the calf muscles to help ready the muscle to take on the brunt of the impact of the foot. Losing weight can provide relief for overweight individuals with the condition. So can changing common habits such as reducing heavy lifting, and the overall amount of time spent on the feet throughout the day.

Having proper arch support from plantar fasciitis shoes is also a very effective treatment for plantar fasciitis. This is especially true for a person who has flat feet. Cushioning the connective tissue on the bottom of the foot is one of the best ways to remedy the pain and also prevent it from becoming further inflamed.

Plantar fasciitis shoes can be found in most stores where athletic shoes are sold such as a sports equipment store. For mild to moderate cases, these shoes will provide enough arch support and help the foot distribute weight evenly. For more severe inflammation cases, a doctor can prescribe a medical shoe. It will be customized to fit the patients foot and provide the exact amount of arch support needed to help relieve pain and reduce the inflammation.

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