Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is an overuse injury due to improper footwear, training techniques, or the shape of the foot. The plantar fascia is a band of strong fibrous tissue that spans the bottom of the foot, starting from the heel to the balls of the feet. It provides support and protection to the foot. Symptoms include a dull, ache-type pain that can become sharp or stabbing, increasing after periods of rest or inactivity, and tenderness in the heel.
Treatment includes rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen, orthotics, heel pads to provide comfort, and taping for extra support.
Prevention
- Wear proper shoes for your activity: running shoes for running, basketball shoes for basketball.
- Wear orthotics to help support your feet if you have flat feet or high arches.
- Stretch properly before and after activity.
Rehabilitation
- stretching of the plantar fascia
- stretching of the calf muscle
- strengthening of the muscles surrounding the foot and ankle joint
- cortisone injection to relieve pain if stretching and strengthening fail
Content on this page is for informational purposes only. If injured, please consult a physician.