What is Plantar Fasciitis? Transcript
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Hello, I’m DonnaRobertson, Head of Training and Chief Pedorthist for Foot Solutions, a foot wellness retailer specializing inexpertly fittedfootwear and custom crafted orthotic insoles.Today we are going to discuss probably the most common foot pathology we address at Foot Solutions: Plantar Fasciitis.If you suffer from intense heel or arch pain, especially after long periods of rest, you may be suffering from a common foot pathology called Plantar Fasciitis (inflammation of the fascia).We all rely on the plantar fascia,a thick, strong, band of connective tissue that begins (origin of attachment) at your heel (calcaneus bone) and runs along the bottom (plantar) surface of the midfoot and full length of the foot connecting the heel bone to the ball of the foot (insertion at the metatarsal bones).The plantar fascia is in usefor every movement involving the feet for daily function and activities.The plantar fascia has lots of purposes, but two main purposes have to do with foot support and walking. This fibrous connective fascia works like a spring assisting in supporting the arches of the foot directing and propelling you forward while walking.Excessive stretching of this tissue while running or walking can cause tiny tears that lead to irritation, inflammation and pain on the bottom of the heel,the arch of the foot, the ball of the foot or all three locations. The bottom lineis this: plantar fasciitis is very painful and can be debilitating.As you engage in walking function, the area of the plantar fascia that experiences most of the acute pressure and stress, is at the insertion (connection) to the heel base or to be more specific, on the inside of your heel (medial heel). Our heel bone is the largest bone in the foot and absorbs the most amount of shock and pressure. If left untreated, plantar fasciitis cancause other conditions like heel spurs.
With Plantar fasciitis, the bottom of your foot usually hurts either on the heel just slightly inward from the center (which is the most common area of pain),or in the arch of your foot (less common), or in both places. The pain is often acute either first thing in the morning or after standing up after being off your feet for a while. Just like muscles, when the plantar fascia is cold and inactive, it contracts and becomes less flexible. This is what makes that first step out of bed or after resting so painful. After you walk for a while, the tissue warms up making it more pliable and the pain often subsides somewhat. The symptoms may decrease as you perform an appropriate calfstretch to eliminate the tension/stress of the plantar fascia. However, the pain may return after long periods of standing, walking or running. This is especially common if you are wearing shoes with inadequate heel and arch support.In two follow upvideos, we will explore seven common causes of plantar fasciitis, how to treat the root cause of it, and how Foot Solutions can help.To learn more or to schedule a visit with one of our in-store certified Pedorthists, visitwww.footsolutions.com. Your feet are the foundation of your health. Let us take care of them for you.
