Plantar Fasciitis

Definition of Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar Fasciitis is an inflammation of the plantar fascia caused by excessive stretching. The plantar fascia is a broad band of fibrous tissue that runs along the bottom surface of the foot, attaching to the bottom of the heel bone and extending to the forefoot. When the plantar fascia is excessively stretched, it can result in plantar fasciitis, which also can lead to heel pain, arch pain and heel spurs.

Cause of Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar Fasciitis often leads to heel pain, heel spurs or arch pain. The excessive stretching of the plantar fascia that leads to the inflammation and discomfort can be caused by:

• Over-pronation (flat feet), which results in the arch collapsing upon weight bearing
• A foot with an unusually high arch
• A sudden increase in physical activity
• Excessive weight on the foot, usually attributed to obesity or pregnancy
• Improperly fitting footwear

Over-pronation (flat feet) is the leading cause of plantar fasciitis. Over-pronation occurs in the walking process, when a person's arch collapses upon weight bearing, causing the plantar fascia to be stretched away from the heel bone. With Plantar Fasciitis, the bottom of your foot usually hurts near the inside of the foot where the heel and arch meet. The pain is often acute either first thing in the morning or after a long rest--while resting, the plantar fascia contracts back to its original shape. As the day progresses and the plantar fascia continues to be stretched, the pain often subsides.

Treatment and Prevention of Plantar Fasciitis

The key for the proper treatment of plantar fasciitis is 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 an effective device to reduce the over-pronation and allow the condition to heal.

If you have unusually high arches, which also can lead to plantar fasciitis, cushion the heel, absorb shock and wear proper footwear that will accommodate and comfort the foot. Other common treatments include stretching exercises, plantar fasciitis night splints, wearing shoes that have a cushioned heel to absorb shock and elevating the heel with the use of a heel cradle or heel cup.

Heel cradles and heel cups provide extra comfort, cushion the heel, and reduce the amount of shock and shear forces placed during everyday activities. Every time your foot strikes the ground, the plantar fascia is stretched. You can reduce the strain and stress on the plantar fascia by not running on hard or uneven surfaces, shedding excess weight, and wearing shoes and orthotics that support your arch to prevent over-stretching of the plantar fascia.