Plantar fasciitis: symptoms, diagnosis and treatment
What is plantar fasciitis and who is most prone to it? Here's everything there is behind one of the biggest causes of foot pain.
Plantar fasciitis is the pain caused by inflammation of the fascia, the thick, fibrous connective tissue that covers the centre of the sole of the foot and links the heel, bridge and toes.
The main symptom of plantar fasciitis is a sharp pain in the heel area, which can sometimes also be accompanied by a burning sensation. This discomfort usually appears early in the morning, when the patient gets up after sitting for many hours or after strenuous activity. Although the pain appears bit by bit, this discomfort can make sports difficult and, in some cases, can severely limit a person's mobility.
People who meet one or more of the following conditions are more likely to suffer from this inflammatory process: being between 40 and 60 years old, having poor weight distribution on the soles due to flat feet or high arches, workers who spend too many hours of their working day standing or sitting, athletes or people who participate in sports that put excessive pressure on their heels, such as running, ballet or jumping, and people who are overweight or obese.
If we experience pain in the heel or when stretching our toes, swelling and redness, we should consult with a health professional, who will examine our feet and evaluate pre-existing conditions, stiffness or symptoms of swelling. You may also need an ultrasound to rule out other conditions.
Prevention for plantar fasciitis
To prevent plantar fasciitis, we must strengthen the muscles and tendons in our feet, make sure we maintain good posture, wear comfortable and appropriate footwear that has good support and cushioning (avoid wearing flat shoes), and keep our bodyweight under control. It is essential to listen to our body and rest when we feel pain or tiredness, especially after intense physical activity. As a preventive measure, a study of the foot will help us to spot issues that could become future problems before they appear.
Treatment for plantar fasciitis
Although it can be treated with anti-inflammatory drugs and by applying cold packs to the sole of the foot, rehabilitation is essential to avoid relapses. In some cases, a specialist may include a night splint or orthopaedic insoles as part of the treatment.
