Plantar fasciitis is a bony protrusion under the heel bone that can cause severe heel pain, especially in the mornings. Improper footwear, high-impact activities, obesity, and rheumatic diseases can contribute to the development of plantar fasciitis. Treatment options include special orthotic inserts, physical therapy, shock wave therapy, and medication. Rest, ice application, and stretching exercises are methods that can be applied at home. Surgical intervention may be required in advanced cases. Choosing appropriate footwear, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding barefoot walking on hard surfaces can help reduce the risk of plantar fasciitis.
Plantar fasciitis, known as 'heel spur' in Turkish, is a common condition that causes sharp heel pain, especially during the first steps in the morning. It can limit mobility and significantly impact daily life by causing discomfort. This article explains what plantar fasciitis is, its causes, symptoms, and effective treatment methods.
Plantar fasciitis is a bony growth that forms under the heel bone. It is due to the accumulation of calcium and gradual calcification at the point where the plantar fascia, a ligament in the foot, attaches to the heel bone. Over time, this process results in a sharp bony protrusion that can irritate the surrounding soft tissues and cause pain.
Common Symptom: Patients typically experience severe pain during their first steps in the morning, which may diminish as they continue to walk.
Various factors can contribute to the development of plantar fasciitis:
Improper Footwear: Wearing shoes with stiff soles or inadequate arch support can increase the risk.
High-Impact Activities: Activities like running, jumping, or walking on hard surfaces can lead to repeated stress and the formation of plantar fasciitis.
Obesity: Excess body weight applying additional pressure to the foot can increase the likelihood of plantar fasciitis.
Flat Feet or High Arches: Abnormal foot structure can alter weight distribution and create stress on the heel bone.
Rheumatic Diseases: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis can increase the risk of plantar fasciitis due to chronic inflammation.
Plantar fasciitis is typically diagnosed through a physical examination and confirmed with X-rays. X-rays reveal a bony protrusion resembling a spur under the foot, hence the name.
Custom Orthotic Inserts: Custom insoles and heel cups can help alleviate pressure in the affected area and reduce pain.
Physical Therapy: Stretching exercises for the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon can increase flexibility and alleviate symptoms.
Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT): This non-invasive treatment uses shock waves to stimulate healing in the affected tissues.
Medications: Anti-inflammatory drugs and corticosteroid injections can help reduce pain and inflammation.
Rest and Ice: Resting the foot and applying ice packs can help reduce swelling and pain.
Stretching Exercises: Regularly stretching the calf muscles and plantar fascia can prevent stiffness and improve flexibility.
Surgery is considered as a last resort when conservative treatments fail. It involves removing the bony protrusion and releasing the plantar fascia to alleviate tension.
Wear Supportive Shoes: Choose shoes with proper arch support and cushioning to reduce stress on the heels.
Maintain a Healthy Weight: Staying at a healthy weight minimizes pressure on the feet.
Avoid Walking Barefoot on Hard Surfaces: Walking barefoot on hard surfaces can increase stress on the plantar fascia and lead to plantar fasciitis.
Plantar fasciitis is a painful condition that can hinder daily activities if left untreated. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment involving orthotic use, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes can help effectively manage the symptoms. In severe cases, medical interventions like shock wave therapy or surgery may be necessary. Individuals can reduce the risk of developing plantar fasciitis and maintain an active lifestyle by taking preventive measures such as wearing proper footwear and maintaining a healthy weight.
