If a stabbing pain usually accompanies your first steps in the morning, you might want to look into plantar fasciitis treatment. An inflamed thick band of tissue, plantar fascia, running between your toes and heel bone could be the cause of your woes. The pain is more pronounced in the morning because you’re coming from a long period of rest.
Once you’re up and about, the pain will decrease only to strike again after standing for a long time or whenever you stand after sitting for a while. Although the condition is more common among runners, it also affects overweight people as well as anyone who wears shoes without adequate heel support.
What causes plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fascia’s primary function is to support the arch of your foot and to absorb the shock as you walk. When subjected to a lot of stress and tension, the fascia develops small tears. The repeated tearing and stretching that comes the walking or running process continues the irritation, leading to the inflammation of the fascia.
While you can develop plantar fasciitis without an apparent cause, certain factors increase the risk of suffering from this condition. People between the age of 40 and 60 years as well as runners and ballet dancers are at a higher risk. People with high arches, flat feet, or abnormal weight distribution are also susceptible. Factory workers, teachers, or other workers who spend long hours on their feet are at risk as well.
What are the treatment options?
Seeking medical attention is crucial in easing the pain and reducing the inflammation. A quick examination by the doctor can help pinpoint the tender areas in the foot, which is instrumental in determining the cause. Sometimes, the doctor may order an imaging test such as an MRI or X-ray to eliminate other issues such as stress fractures.
It takes between six and 18 months to recover fully from this condition, which proves frustrating for some. Most people can recover with minimal medical intervention by resting, icing, and stretching the foot. However, there are numerous medical treatments to help speed the process along.
Some treatment options include medication and steroid injections, physical therapy, shockwave therapy, or surgery. The treatments are progressive in that the doctor is likely to try out the medical options first before recommending therapy. If therapy doesn’t seem to solve your problem, then your physician is likely to recommend surgery as a last measure.
What are some of the possible prevention measures?
Most preventive measures revolve around easing the pressure off your feet to keep the inflammation at bay. Shedding some extra weight if you’re overweight reduces the strain on your feet. Avoiding high heels, replacing athletic shoes frequently, and wearing shoes with excellent support will also help.
Never walk barefooted on hard surfaces, especially in the morning, as you might aggravate the plantar fasciitis. Favor low impact exercises such as swimming and cycling over high impact activities such as jumping and running.
Seeking help from a qualified physician is the best way to deal with plantar fasciitis. They can determine the cause of the inflammation and recommend the most suitable form of treatment. Adequate rest is crucial to your quick recovery and reducing the inflammation.
