Plantar fasciitis affects 1 in 10 Canadians. If you ever wake up with heel pain during the first few steps in the morning, the primary culprit may be plantar fasciitis.
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar Fasciitis is the inflammation and tearing of a fibrous tissue called plantar fascia-- a thick connective tissue found on the bottom of the foot, connecting the heel to the toes. Tearing and inflammation of this tissue is caused from repetitive stress and overstretching.
Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis?
The most common symptom of plantar fasciitis is pain in the heel/foot after taking the first 4 steps in the morning and improves after a short walk. Increased pain can also be experienced from standing up from a prolonged sitting position. The pain is usually described as a stabbing pain in the bottom of the foot/heel.
Causes of Plantar Fasciitis?
- Foot biomechanics- flat feet and/or overpronation or oversupination of the foot
- Obesity
- Improper foot wear
- Muscle Weakness
- Long distance running
- Age: More common between the ages of 40-60 years old.
Treatment:
- Conservative Treatment such as stretching, strengthening and soft tissue manipulation of the plantar fascia.
- Custom orthotics with proper arch support. May be covered by your insurance provider. Read More About the Benefits of Custom Orthotics.
Sherma Libatique
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