(Heel Pain) Plantar fasciitis may be your problem.
Heel pain is one of the most familiar situations that a lot of patients complain about. Several factors are responsible for this condition. Plantar fasciitis is the most general cause of pain felt in the heel. “Plantar” means the bottom of the foot, “fascia” is a type of connective tissue, and “itis” means “inflammation” This is also referred to as the heel spur syndrome if there is a presence of spur. This condition may also be caused by arthritis, tendonitis, nerve irritation, and stress fracture.
During Heel pain caused by planter fasciitis, the band of tissue expanding from the heel point to the toe tip becomes swollen. In this condition, the tight tissue forming the curve of the foot is first annoyed and will then result in swelling.
Risk factors for plantar fasciitis are
- excessive running
- high arch
- when one leg is longer than the other
- obesity
- occupations with prolonged standing or walking
- sedentary lifestyle
- Achilles tendon tightness
Treatment can be done according to the phases. Initial treatment should be tried for a few weeks and then should continue with further phases of treatment. Following are some effective treatments.
Tape can be used to give the face rest without reducing activity. Athletic tape can be bought at all pharmacies. Tape can be the cure in the severe case which can result a sudden increase in weight. Losing weight, ice, and stretching can also cure chronic pain.
- If heel pain persists, then physical therapy, foot orthotics, and night splinting may be needed.
- Stretching the calf muscles without reinjuring the fascia before getting out of bed in the morning and a few times per day is well-known to be a cure for many patients.
- Ice is a miracle cure for soft-tissue injuries. Ice is not only great for professional football players with knee or shoulder injuries, but also for desk-jockeys who can’t seem to get rid of their heel pain. It was ranked the third best treatment by our visitors. Applying ice after activity or injury is crucial. It may be beneficial to apply it up to 5 times a day.
- Physical therapy exercise is one of the best cures for heel pain. But be sure, exercises should be done under experienced physical therapist. When done properly and consistently, physical therapy can help prevent permanent relief from your pain.
90% of patients will improve with the above techniques. Pain lasting 6 months despite therapy may require shock wave therapy.