Plantar Fasciitis: Fact vs Fiction
Are you experiencing a shooting pain in heel that won’t go away? It could be plantar fasciitis.
But before you dive into self-diagnosis mode, let’s separate fact from fiction regarding this often misunderstood condition.
We will debunk common misconceptions and shed some light on plantar fasciitis facts.
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is a painful condition that impacts the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue running along the bottom of your foot, your heel to your toes.
Common Misconceptions about Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is a condition that is characterized by shooting pain in the heel. However, there are several misconceptions surrounding this condition that can lead to confusion and misinformation. Let’s debunk some of these myths and understand the truth behind plantar fasciitis.
1.The only muscle that supports the bottom of the foot is the plantar fascia.
FACT: The plantar fascia is a fibrous connective tissue aponeurosis that connects and stabilizes muscles to other muscles or bones.
While the plantar fascia provides arch support through tension during weight bearing due to its attachment from the heel to the toes at the end of the foot, it is believed to offer just 14% of the necessary load-carrying stability.
2.Only athletes or active individuals get plantar fasciitis.
FACT: While it’s true that activities like running or jumping can raise your risk of developing plantar fasciitis, it can affect anyone regardless of their level of physical activity. The primary cause is excessive strain on the plantar fascia, which could result from various factors such as obesity, wearing unsupportive footwear, or having flat feet.
3. Plantar fasciitis is only caused by flat feet.
FACT: While studies have found a link between foot pronation (flattening of the inner arch) and plantar fasciitis, a high-arched foot is also a reason for plantar fasciitis.
4.Resting will cure plantar fasciitis.
FACT: While rest is an essential component of recovery, it alone won’t cure the condition. Plantar fasciitis requires a comprehensive treatment approach that includes stretching exercises, icing, orthotic devices for additional support, and sometimes even physical therapy.
5. Surgery is always necessary to treat plantar fasciitis.
FACT: Surgery is typically considered a last resort when all other conservative treatments have failed to provide relief. In most cases, non-invasive methods such as plantar fasciitis exercises and proper footwear can effectively manage and alleviate symptoms without surgical intervention.
6. Heel spurs cause plantar fasciitis.
FACT: Heel spurs, or bone outgrowths, can form over time as a result of a variety of factors, including high-impact sports, prolonged standing on the job, or putting excessive pressure on the heels as a result of weight increase. Spurs can aggravate plantar fasciitis by burrowing into the surrounding tissue and inflaming the plantar fascia.
Causes and Treatment Options for Plantar Fasciitis
To better understand this condition, let’s explore its causes, risk factors, and treatment options:
Causes and Risk Factors:
- Excessive Strain: Overuse or repetitive activities like running or jumping can lead to excessive strain on the plantar fascia, causing inflammation and micro-tears, resulting in pain and discomfort.
- Foot Structure: Abnormal foot structure, such as flat feet or high arches, can disrupt weight distribution, putting additional pressure on the plantar fascia and leading to irritation and inflammation.
- Lifestyle Factors: Obesity and wearing improper footwear without adequate support or cushioning can increase the risk of plantar fasciitis.
- Aging: Natural aging processes make tissues less flexible and more prone to injury, increasing susceptibility to plantar fasciitis.
Treatment Options:
- Stretching plantar fasciitis exercises: These exercises help alleviate strain on the plantar fascia by loosening tight muscles and tendons in the foot.
- Physical Therapy: A qualified therapist can create a personalized treatment plan with plantar fasciitis exercises and techniques tailored to your needs, speeding up recovery.
- Orthotics: Special shoe inserts, called orthotics, provide support and cushioning, reducing strain on the plantar fascia and promoting proper foot alignment.
- Night Splints: Night splints keep the foot stretched while sleeping, preventing overnight tightening of the plantar fascia and reducing morning pain.
- Advanced Treatments: If conservative measures don’t suffice, advanced treatments like corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation and shockwave therapy for healing may be considered.
Consult Dr. KP Meda plantar fasciitis and flat feet
Now that we have demystified these plantar fasciitis facts, it is important to find appropriate treatment.
Dr. KP Meda specializes in treating conditions related to foot health, including plantar fasciitis and flat feet.
With his expertise and experience, they can offer you an accurate diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment options tailored specifically to your needs.
Put a stop to that shooting pain in heel today by booking an appointment with Dr. KP Meda for all your concerns about plantar fasciitis and flat feet!
