Plantar Fasciitis and Heel Pain
Most Common Types of Heel Pain
Plantar Fasciitis is one of the most common types of heel pain caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia. The plantar fascia is the band of tissue that stretches from the ball of your foot to your heel and is responsible for supporting your arch.
When you walk excessively or are on your feet all day, the constant wear on your plantar fascia can cause stress and tension that ultimately lead to inflammation or even micro-tears along with the tissue. This can cause mild to severe pain and make it hard to walk, run and accomplish daily activities.
How to Recognize Plantar Fasciitis
If you are experiencing heel pain when you stand up for the first time in the morning, this is a strong sign indicating plantar fasciitis. Plantar Fasciitis is commonly referred to as the “First Step Syndrome” because the pain is most intense after a period of sitting or sleeping through the night. This sharp pain typically subsides after walking for a while but never fully goes away. The pain also worsens after physical activity such as running or playing sports.
It is also important to note that pain from plantar fasciitis is typically in the front of the heel. Heel pain toward the back of the heel is usually a sign that suggests an Achilles tendon condition instead.
Main Causes
As mentioned above, plantar fasciitis is caused after excessive wear and tear of the plantar fascia in the arch of the foot. Although medical professionals tend to agree that the causes of plantar fasciitis are not fully clear, there are some risk factors that make people more prone to it.
Overpronation
Overpronation can be a big risk factor when it comes to plantar fasciitis. Overpronation is a walking gait style that occurs when your ankle rolls inward and your arch collapses. It is prevalent in those with flat feet. This flattens the foot, lengthens the arch, and puts excess tension on the plantar fascia. Usually, this is not a problem, but when this process continues excessively, it will put too much tension on your plantar fascia and create issues. Overpronation is the most common circumstance that leads to plantar fasciitis.
Other At-Risk Foot Traits
- Age: Most common between the ages of 40-60
- Weight: obesity is a common “cause” of plantar fasciitis
- Tight calf muscles
- Foot mechanics: Flat feet, high arches
- Occupations that keep you on your feet on hard surfaces
- Participating in activities that repetitively stress the heel like running or sports
Treatments That Can Relieve Heel Pain
- Rest: This is critical. Plantar Fasciitis can take weeks to months to heal. Rest from intense physical activity is often necessary.
- Proper Footwear: Footwear is your foundation and the most important consideration. The proper footwear for your gait and foot type is crucial.
- Orthotic Devices: These devices will offer more support for the arch and plantar fascia within the correct footwear to minimize the risk of further injury.
- Compression: Graduated Compression increases blood flow, decreases swelling, and helps with pain relief and recovery.
- Stretching: Stretching is important for loosening and strengthening the foot tissue, especially the calf muscles.
- Ice Therapy: This will relieve the pain and bring the inflammation down. Freeze a water bottle and use it to give yourself an ice massage on the bottom of your feet.
- Anti-Inflammatories: If your stomach can handle it, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) can help to reduce inflammation.
Solelytics always recommends consulting with a physician if your problem is chronic or seems to worsen as time goes on.
Mobile Custom Orthotics for Plantar Fasciitis Relief
When your daily activities are causing you pain, it may be time for a change.
You cannot switch jobs on a whim, but you can change your response to heel pain. Custom orthotics will create personalized arch support that fits your foot perfectly and gives you the support you need. These devices will support your feet, easing the tension placed on your plantar fascia and preventing further damage.
Solelytics is the premiere mobile custom orthotic company that provides comprehensive foot care to people in the Richmond area who are suffering from intense heel pain. Everyone’s body is different, including our feet. Our services will find a solution that fits your foot and feels comfortable so you can continue living your best life pain-free.
As a mobile service, we’ll come to you. We provide custom orthotic services to:
- Greater Richmond Area
- Chesterfield
- Midlothian
- Chester
- Colonial Heights
Whether you’re a business looking for an Employee Wellness opportunity, an organization looking to address the foot health of your members, or an individual with painful foot conditions or wanting to increase comfort/sports performance: We provide top-notch levels of service and serve our clients until they are Highly Satisfied.