Plantar fasciitis can cause pain in your heel and is one of the most common Brampton sports injuries. Learn more about what it is, what symptoms you might notice, how it is diagnosed and how you can treat it.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
The plantar fascia is the flat area of tissue (or the ligament) that joins your heel bone with your toes. This essential part of your foot supports your foot’s arch.
Plantar fasciitis is the most frequent cause of heel pain. It is particularly common in middle-aged people but can also occur in younger people who spend a lot of time on their feet. It can occur in one or both feet.
If untreated, it can result in chronic heel pain that hinders your everyday activities.
What are the symptoms?
If you strain your plantar fascia, it can become swollen, weak and inflamed. You’ll notice that the heel or bottom of your foot will hurt when you walk or stand. If you continue to place strain on this ligament, you may experience tiny tears that can lead to pain and swelling. The pain may be worse when you first wake up, when climbing stairs or after an intense exercise session.
You may be more likely to develop plantar fasciitis if:
- Your feet roll overly inward when you walk.
- Your feet are flat or you have high arches.
- You walk, run or stand for lengthy periods of time, particularly on a hard surface.
- You are overweight.
- Your shoes don’t fit well or have become worn out.
- Your calf muscles or Achilles tendons are tight.
How is it diagnosed?
To help determine if you have plantar fasciitis, your doctor will examine your feet and observe as you walk and stand. You’ll also likely be asked questions about where the pain is and what time of day your foot hurts most, your level of activity and what types of physical exercise you participate in.
In addition, your doctor will want to know about your past health, including injuries or illnesses. He or she may take an X-ray of your foot.
How can it be treated?
Your doctor may recommend a variety of treatment methods to try, including the following:
- Go barefoot as little as possible, as not wearing shoes can potentially increase your pain.
- Try wearing shoes with the proper arch support for your feet, such as athletic or other highly cushioned shoes.
- Stay off your feet as much as possible by limiting or stopping daily activities that are leading to your heel pain. Running or walking on concrete or other hard surfaces should be avoided.
- Apply ice to your heel, or take ibuprofen or naproxen.
- Perform a specific set of stretches recommended by your doctor.
If your plantar fasciitis does not respond to these forms of treatment, your doctor may also recommend custom-made shoe inserts, night splints or a walking cast.
If you are experiencing foot pain or any other type of sports injuries in Brampton, call our team of professionals at Paramount Physiotherapy & Sports Injuries Clinic at 905-455-4488 today! We’ll provide you with the care and knowledge you need to get back to your favorite activities.