Heel pain can be a persistent and disruptive condition, affecting daily activities from walking to standing. One common source of this discomfort is chronic plantar fasciitis, a condition that develops when the ligament supporting the foot’s arch becomes repeatedly inflamed. Long-term management focuses on reducing strain on the ligament and addressing the underlying causes of inflammation.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
The plantar fascia is a thick, web-like ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. It acts as a shock absorber, supporting the arch of your foot and absorbing stress during movement. When this ligament is overstretched or overused, tiny tears can occur, leading to inflammation and pain. This condition is known as plantar fasciitis.
Plantar fasciitis often develops without a specific, identifiable reason. Certain factors may increase the risk of developing this condition. These include occupations that require long periods of standing. Foot mechanics, like having flat feet or a high arch, can also affect the way weight is distributed, placing added stress on the plantar fascia. Obesity may contribute to the condition by increasing the load on the ligament.
What Are the Symptoms?
The primary symptom of plantar fasciitis is pain in the bottom of the foot near the heel. The pain is typically at its worst with the first few steps after waking up in the morning. It can also be triggered by long periods of standing or after getting up from a seated position. The discomfort usually decreases during activity but may return after periods of rest.
The pain is often described as a sharp, stabbing sensation. It might feel like a dull ache for some. The location of the pain is almost always on the underside of the heel. While it generally affects only one foot, this condition can occur in both feet simultaneously. The intensity of the pain can vary throughout the day and from one day to the next.
How Is It Managed?
Managing chronic plantar fasciitis involves strategies aimed at relieving pain, reducing inflammation, and preventing recurrence. Initial management frequently involves conservative methods. Rest is a primary component, which means limiting activities that aggravate the heel pain. Applying ice to the affected area several times a day can help reduce inflammation.
Supportive footwear and orthotics are another part of management. Custom orthotic inserts may help distribute pressure more evenly across the foot. A night splint that stretches the calf and foot arch during sleep can alleviate morning pain for some individuals.
When conservative methods do not provide sufficient relief, other treatments may be explored. Physical therapy can guide a person through specific exercises to stretch the plantar fascia and strengthen lower leg muscles, which helps stabilize the ankle and heel. A podiatrist might suggest other medical interventions in more severe cases.
Meet With a Podiatrist
If you experience persistent symptoms of plantar fasciitis, seeking a professional evaluation is a productive step. A podiatrist, a doctor specializing in foot and ankle conditions, can provide an accurate diagnosis and develop a tailored management plan. They can assess your specific situation, review your foot structure, and prescribe the most appropriate course of action to help you find lasting relief from heel pain.
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