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Plantar Fasciitis

By John M. Martinez, M.D.
3/1/06

What is it?

Are you waking up in the morning dreading those first few steps because of the pain it causes in your feet? Do you avoid going barefoot on the beach because of the pain that develops in the arch of your foot? Or maybe you've started to cut short those longer runs because of a gradual onset of heel pain? There's a good chance you make be suffering from plantar fasciitis.

Plantar fasciitis is the result of inflammation and pain present in the fascia of the bottom of the foot. The plantar fascia is a thick band-like structure that originates from the heel bone (calcaneus) and attaches to the metatarsals.

Why does it occur?

Risk factors for developing plantar fasciitis include either flat feet (pes planus) or a high arch (pes cavus). A recent increase in running mileage or intensity, or wearing older, worn-out running shoes may also be contributing factors.

Treatment options

There are various treatment options for plantar fasciitis. Initial treatment usually focuses upon stretching and strengthening the plantar fascia and the muscles of the lower leg. Inflammation can be controlled with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, ice and tissue massage. Other treatment options include the proper selection of running shoes or orthotics for cases that do not respond to initial treatments. For cases that don't respond, evaluation by your medical provider may be necessary. In some difficult cases, further treatment may include wearing a splint on the affected foot at night, steroid injections and/or surgery.

Home remedies

Basic treatments that can be tried a home include stretching, massage and ice.

Ice - can be applied for 10 to 15 minutes at a time every two to three hours, especially if the pain occurs during or after running to reduce inflammation. Other tips include filling a 20-oz plastic soda bottle with water and keeping it cold in the fridge. Roll the injured, bare foot over the side of the bottle for 3 to 5 minutes at a time.

Stretching exercises for plantar fascia focus on stretching the Achilles and calf muscles. Other exercises include trying to pick up a towel or small objects with the toes, which increases flexibility of the plantar fascia.

Soft tissue massage - especially before putting weight on the foot can also help

© 2004 John Martinez, MD

This information is provided for general information only. Please contact your medical provider for an evaluation.

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Plantar Fasciitis