What is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar Fasciitis is an inflammation caused by excessive stretching of the plantar fascia.

The plantar fascia is a broad band of fibrous tissue that runs along the bottom surface of the foot. It attaches at the bottom of the heel bone and extends to the forefoot.

Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia is strained over time beyond its normal extension, causing the soft tissue fibers of the fascia to tear or stretch at points along its length. This leads to inflammation, pain, and possibly the growth of a bone spur where the fascia attaches to the heel bone.

Inflammation may be aggravated by shoes that lack appropriate support, especially in the arch area, and by the chronic irritation that sometimes accompanies an athletic lifestyle.

With this condition, the bottom of the foot usually hurts near the inside of the foot where the heel and the arch meet. The pain is often acute first thing in the morning or after a long rest, because the plantar fascia contracts to its original shape while resting. Walking or normal daily activities may cause the pain to lessen or even disappear, but pain often returns after resting or extensive activity.               

Causes

Excessive stretching of the plantar fascia leads to inflammation and discomfort and may be caused by:

• Over-pronation/flat feet, which results in the arch collapsing during weight bearing and the plantar fascia being stretched away from the heel bone (this is the leading cause of this condition)
• A foot with an unusually high arch
• A sudden increase in physical activity
• Excessive weight on the foot, often due to obesity or pregnancy
• Improperly fitting footwear

Prevention and Treatment

Proper treatment of this condition involves determining what is causing the excessive stretching of the plantar fascia.

When the cause is over-pronation/flat feet, an orthotic with rearfoot posting and longitudinal arch support is effective in allowing the condition to heal.

If you have unusually high arches, cushioning the heel, absorbing shock and wearing proper footwear that will accommodate and comfort the foot.

Other common treatments include stretching exercises, night foot splints, wearing shoes with a cushioned heel to absorb shock or elevating the heel with an heel cradle or heel cup. These in-shoe devices provide extra comfort, cushion the heel and reduce the amount of shock and force placed on the foot during every day activities.

Every time a foot strikes the ground, the plantar fascia is stretched. Pain and strain can be reduced by some simple steps:

• Avoid running on hard or uneven ground
• Lose excess weight
• Wear shoes and orthotics that support your arch to prevent over-stretching of the plantar fascia

Call 800.447.0151 or email us to know more about which PAL products are best for plantar fasciitis!