Understanding Plantar Fasciitis

Understanding Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is a common musculoskeletal condition affecting active people, but there are many treatment options available.

One of the common conditions that orthopedists in advanced physical therapy rehabilitation centers in Brooklyn, NYC treat is plantar fasciitis.

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is a painful musculoskeletal condition common among people who run or walk a lot. If you experience pain at the heel bone just after getting up in the morning and after a period of sitting, it’s likely that you have plantar fasciitis.

The tough fibrous band of tissue which connects your heel bone to the base of your toe is called the fascia. The Achilles tendon is attached to the fascia. Heel pain occurs when the fascia becomes inflamed. Walking or standing strain the ligaments of the foot arch and will make the pain worse. Frequent strain could lead to the ligament developing tiny tears that cause swelling and further pain. It’s important to get proper treatment before it becomes chronic.

Factors Causing Planter Heel Pain The condition can occur due to repetitive stretching and tearing leading to degeneration of the plantar fascia or due to sudden trauma.

Age is another risk factor, with the

condition usually occurring in people of ages 40 and 60. Those with flat feet or have a high arch or an abnormal pattern of walking can also develop planter heel pain. Activities such as such as long-distance running, ballistic jumping activities, ballet dancing and aerobic dance, place a lot of stress on the heel and can result in the early onset of the condition. Using shoes that are worn out or are poorly fitting are another risk factor.

Treatment Exercise, specifically stretching, is the initial treatment for plantar fasciitis. The aim of the exercises is to stabilize the foot and ankle. In an established rehab center, a physical therapist will guide you in performing exercises to stretch the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon and strengthen lower leg muscles as part of pain management. Regular exercises will help reduce the weight placed on the foot till the inflammation is gone.

Physical therapy exercises can also reduce the risks of the condition returning.

One effective exercise involves leaning forward with the arms against a wall. Keep one leg straight so that the knee isn’t bent and the heel touches the ground. Keep the other knee bent and fully extended to the front, and stretch while leaning. Each time you lean, hold the position for 10 seconds and then straighten up. As you stretch, the foot arch and heel cord stretch, releasing the strain on the plantar fascia.

718-769-2521

www.hqbk.com

info@hqbk.com

Another stretching exercise involves leaning forward onto a table and keeping the feet spread apart, one foot ahead of the other. Then flex the knees and squat while going down. The heels must remain on the ground for as long a time as possible. This will cause the foot arches and heel cords to stretch. Hold the position for 10 seconds and then straighten up.

These exercises will have to be repeated several times, as advised by your physical therapist.

Treatment for planter fasciitis could also include: -

NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) to relieve the pain

-

Night splints to hold the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon in a stretched position while you sleep

-

Custom orthotics to provide arch support and help distribute pressure to your feet more uniformly

If you live in the Brooklyn area, consult an orthopedist in a reliable and advanced healthcare center. At the right center, you can expect comprehensive diagnostic evaluation and customized treatment with excellent follow-up till full recovery.

718-769-2521

www.hqbk.com

info@hqbk.com