Learning More About Podiatrist Care

Stay A Step Ahead Of Plantar Fasciitis

If you are overweight, have a job that puts your feet under a lot of stress, or have a lifestyle that has you putting more than normal pressure on your feet, then you should educate yourself on a foot condition called plantar fasciitis. By learning all you can about the condition, you can decrease your chances of suffering from it, and it is a painful condition that you definitely don't want to have if you can avoid it.

What is plantar fasciitis and how is it caused?

Running along the length of the bottom of your foot is the plantar fascia. It is the ligament that connects your toes to your heel. It's bottom most position leaves it vulnerable to an array of problems. It can be easily bruised, torn, pulled and otherwise irritated.

There are many ways you can cause trauma or too much stress to the plantar fascia. Some of these ways include putting too much weight on your feet, wearing shoes that don't provide your feet with proper support, putting stress on them by walking or standing on hard surfaces and by not giving your feet enough rest throughout the day.

What does the pain of plantar fasciitis feel like?

Different people can experience different pains in the bottoms of their feet from this condition. However, the pain is often said to feel like a throbbing or burning near the heel area of the foot. Although the pain can happen at all times of the day and night, it generally intensifies first thing in the morning upon awakening.

How can you get rid of some of the pain?

One good way to get relief is to take an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory. Always make sure you take these with some food, so you don't have to deal with an upset stomach. Cold packs can also help bring instant relief from the pain. It's a good idea to keep a couple of small water bottles stocked in the freezer for times when the pain comes. You can roll them under your feet for both cold relief, and a bit of a massage that will also help.

Are there treatments for this condition?

Yes, there are treatments available. The type of treatment a podiatrist like Collier Podiatry PA suggests will depend on the severity of the condition. Treatments can range from rest and pain control to wearing braces or appliances. In worst case scenarios, surgery may be the recommended treatment of choice.


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