What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis or heel pain is an inflammation of the plantar fascia that cause pain on the bottom of heel. Plantar fasciitis commonly causes stabbing pain that heel especially during your first step in the morning. As you continue to move around, the pain will normally decrease, but might return after prolonged hours of standing or walking.
What Are the Common Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis?
Stabbing pain in the bottom of the heel which usually worst on the first step in the morning
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis to Happen?
Plantar fascia is bowstring shape, it supports the arch of your foot and absorb shock when you walk. If there is more stress and tension on the fascia, small tear can occur which can irritate the foot. Repeated tear can cause inflammation towards the foot. Besides, some factor may cause this condition to develop, which include:
- Age: Common in people age 40 to 60
- Types of exercise: Activity that cause stress onto your heel such as long-distance running
- Foot mechanic: Flat feet, high arch can add stress onto the heel
- Obesity: Excess weight put extra stress on plantar fascia
- Occupation that keep you on feet such as teachers, factory workers
What Are the Common Treatment for Plantar Fasciitis?
- Home treatments: Icing, bracing and anti-inflammatory drugs
- Corticosteroid injection by doctor if the pain is unbearable
- Physical therapy: Stretch your plantar fascia and calf muscles, strengthen your lower leg muscles
- Surgery: Surgery is done if the pain is severe and lasts more than 6 to 12 months
Which Exercise Best for Plantar Fasciitis?
- Stretching exercise for calf to help loosen your muscle tightness
- Towel curl exercise
