By Nevin Thompson
Image may be NSFW.
Clik here to view.
If you’re active and over 35, you may have encountered a stinging sensation along the bottom of your foot. The pain can be excruciating, and you may have heard the words “plantar fasciitis” to describe it.
What is this condition?
The plantar fascia is a band of tissue that runs from your heel down through most of the length of your foot. It could be considered to be a “shock absorber” for your arch. This tissue is also known as the arch tendon.
When this tissue becomes inflamed, the result is plantar fasciitis, a condition that can result in moderate to severe pain in your heel and foot. Plantar fasciitis, over time, can also cause a heel spur. If untreated, the condition can become degenerative, causing further pain, symptoms and long term treatment challenges.
Not surprisingly, athletes such as runners, golfers and tennis players who spend long hours on their feet are some of the most common victims of Plantar Fasciitis. Additionally, those over 40 are more susceptible, as is anyone who is predisposed to the condition.
People who are overweight are more susceptible to this condition, as is anyone who spends time on their feet without proper footwear. In fact, golfers suffer from plantar fasciitis typically because shoes are expensive to replace, and lugging around a heavy bag of clubs can be bad for your feet!
Relief from plantar fasciitis
Temporary relief from plantar fasciitis can often be found through stretching localized massage, or anti-inflammatory medications. This relief is typically short-lived, however, as the condition will usually persist until it is properly treated and the underlying cause is identified and addressed.
Treatment of plantar fasciitis
Permanent relief from plantar fasciitis will usually come from a combination of the following approaches:
- Improved footwear for the activity you’re engaging in.
- Orthotics
- Weight loss
- Physiotherapy
- Massage
Drugs and surgery are also options in extreme cases, although generally should only be considered after all the less intrusive options have been explored.
As always, if you have any health concerns, be sure to contact a health practitioner for help!
Nevin Thompson frequently blogs on behalf of Diversified Health Clinic, a Victoria BC health clinic.
