This common foot condition causes severe pain to the heel and arches of the feet. It affects many people around the globe. It occurs when the thick plantar fasciitis connects the heelbone to the toes becomes inflamed. There are several treatment options that can help relieve pain associated with this condition and encourage healing.

Plantar Fasciitis – What you need to know

Understanding the cause and symptoms of this condition is essential before deciding on treatment. The condition is often caused by overuse, incorrect footwear or biomechanical factors that place excessive strain on the fascia. People with flat-footed individuals, runners and people with tight calf muscle are at a higher risk of developing plantar faciitis.

A sharp pain is often felt in the heel when taking your first steps after a long period of rest or in the early morning. Pain may worsen as the condition continues, which can affect your daily life and the quality of it.

Treatments for Conservative Treatment

Enjoy the Ice!
Allowing your foot to rest is one of the most important steps to treating plantar faciitis. To prevent more irritation, avoid activities such as prolonged standing, strenuous activity, or long periods of sitting. Using ice for 15 to 20 minutes at a stretch can be helpful in reducing swelling and easing discomfort.

Stretching Exercises
Plantar fascia tension can be relieved by stretching exercises targeting the Achilles tendons and the calves. Stretching, especially in the morning before getting up, will improve your flexibility and ease symptoms.

Wearing Supportive Shoes:
For those with plantar fasciitis, it is important to wear shoes with arch support and padding. The use of supportive footwear can help distribute pressure equally across the foot, reducing strain on the fascia. Custom-made or orthotic insoles can also offer additional support.

Evening Splints
Wearing night splints while sleeping will stretch your Achilles tendon and plantar fascia. The morning stiffness can be reduced by wearing a night splint.

Medical Interventions

Anti-Inflammatory Medications:
NSAIDs such as ibuprofen are effective in reducing inflammation and relieving pain caused by plantar fasciitis. But these drugs should only be used with the advice of a medical professional.

Physical Therapy
The physical therapist will provide specific exercises for strengthening the muscles that support the foot, and improving flexibility. In addition, they can use methods such as massage and ultrasound to promote healing.

Corticosteroid Injections:
If there is severe inflammation and pain, it may be necessary to administer corticosteroid shots. These injections provide temporary relief by delivering anti-inflammatory medications directly into the affected areas.

Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy
ESWT, or electroshock wave therapy (ESWT), is a minimally invasive treatment that stimulates healing by using shock waves. Typically, this treatment is only used for patients who do not respond well to other conservative treatments.

The condition can be painful and persistent, but relief is possible with a combination conservative measures and medical treatments. For those experiencing symptoms, it’s important to seek out a professional healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis as well as individualized treatment plans. Plantar fasciitis can be treated with rest, stretching or other advanced treatments.