Plantar fasciitis is a condition that causes pain in the heel of your foot. It is caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia, which is a band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot. Symptoms include pain in the heel that is worse in the morning or after sitting for long periods of time. Treatment options include stretching exercises, wearing supportive shoes, and using orthotics.
Symptoms
The most common symptom of plantar fasciitis is pain in the heel of your foot. The pain is usually worse in the morning or after sitting for long periods of time. It may also be triggered by long periods of standing or walking. The pain may be described as a sharp, stabbing sensation or a dull ache.
Causes
The exact cause of plantar fasciitis is not known, but it is believed to be caused by repeated stress on the plantar fascia. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Overuse from running or other high-impact activities
- Wearing shoes with poor arch support
- Being overweight
- Having flat feet or high arches
Treatment Options
There are several treatment options available for plantar fasciitis. These include:
- Stretching exercises to help relieve tension on the plantar fascia
- Wearing supportive shoes with good arch support
- Using orthotics to provide additional support
- Applying ice to the affected area to reduce inflammation and pain
- Taking over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen
In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to relieve symptoms.
Prevention Tips
There are several things you can do to help prevent plantar fasciitis:
- Wear supportive shoes with good arch support
- Stretch your feet regularly
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Avoid high-impact activities such as running on hard surfaces
If you are experiencing symptoms of plantar fasciitis, it’s important to seek medical attention. Your doctor can help you determine the best course of treatment for your situation.
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