Do you sometimes experience stabbing pain when you take your first steps in the morning? This is one of the early signs of Plantar Fasciitis. This condition involves the inflammation of the tissue that connects the heel bone of your foot to your toes. The pain is severest when you take your first steps in the morning, when you stand for too long, or when you stand after sitting for some time. Ignoring the pain may have adverse effects, including the inability to get continue your usual activities.
In the following article on emedicinehealth.com, Catherine Burt Driver, MD discusses Plantar Fasciitis in detail, including the home remedies.
Home Remedies for Plantar Fasciitis
The fibrous tissue that surrounds muscle and separates various tissues of the body is referred to as the fascia. The bottom, or plantar, surface of the foot has a strip of this tough tissue, referred to as the plantar fascia, stretching from the heel to the front of the bottom of the foot. This bowstring-like plantar fascia stretches underneath the sole of the foot and attaches at the heel. This fascia can become inflamed by disease or injury. Inflammation of the plantar fascia is referred to as plantar fasciitis. Read more here
When you start experiencing pain at the soles of your feet, there are several things you can do before you seek medical advice. Some of the home remedies include stretching the foot, keeping the weight off the affected foot by resting it until the pain decreases, and rolling a tennis ball along the bottom of your foot. If the pain is unbearable, you can get over-the-counter pain medication.
In the next article by Anish R. Kadakia, he discusses the symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis and some of the examinations doctors carry out to confirm the condition.
Examinations Done to Confirm Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis (fashee-EYE-tiss) is the most common cause of pain on the bottom of the heel. Approximately 2 million patients are treated for this condition every year.
Plantar fasciitis occurs when the strong band of tissue that supports the arch of your foot becomes irritated and inflamed.
The plantar fascia is a long, thin ligament that lies directly beneath the skin on the bottom of your foot. It connects the heel to the front of your foot, and supports the arch of your foot. Read more here
When you visit your doctor complaining of pain near your heel, the doctor will carry out a series of tests to confirm if you have Plantar Fasciitis. Some of the signs the doctor will be looking out for include a high arc, tenderness in the front of your heel bone, pain when you flex your foot, and limited motion when you move your ankle upwards.
In this article by Christine Case-Lo, the causes and treatments of Plantar Fasciitis are discussed in detail.
Causes of Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis causes pain in the bottom of the heel. The plantar fascia is a thick, weblike ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. It supports the arch of your foot and helps you walk.
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common orthopedic complaints. Your plantar fascia ligaments experience a lot of wear and tear in your daily life. Normally, these ligaments act as shock absorbers, supporting the arch of the foot. Too much pressure on your feet can damage or tear the ligaments; the plantar fascia becomes inflamed, and the inflammation causes heel pain and stiffness. Read more here
People who are overweight are at a higher risk of developing Plantar Fasciitis. This is because the plantar fascia ligaments are exposed to increased pressure. Pregnant women, especially those in the third trimester, tend to have bouts of plantar fasciitis.
Others who are at risk include long-distance runners, those whose occupations involve being on their feet often, and older people with active lifestyles. This condition affects women more than men. It is important to monitor the symptoms so that you can seek medical attention early.