Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is a very common injury of the plantar fascia, or plantar aponeurosis, a ligament-like fibrous tissue that extends from the heel to the ball of the foot. In fact, it is estimated that between 70 and 75% of heel pain complaints result from mechanical issues that can cause plantar fasciitis (Decker & Albert, 2002). It most commonly presents with poststatic dyskenesia, or pain walking after long periods of rest, especially during the first several steps in the morning upon arising from bed. It often goes untreated for a considerable period of time, because the symptoms are only mildly irritating in the early stages, often resembling the feeling of a small bruise like one would experience after stepping on a small stone. However, as the condition progresses, the pain usually becomes more intolerable and patients then seek medical attention.
Common treatment modalities for plantar fasciitis include, but are not limited to: rest, ice, targeted stretching and exercises, and anti-inflammatory medications. Also common is the use of arch supports, either custom or over-the-counter. In most cases, an over-the-counter orthotic arch support is as effective in treating the condition as a custom molded orthotic. Appropriate footwear can also play a role in helping the patient recover. In more severe cases, a podiatrist or other doctor may employ the use of a cortisone injection into the affected site for the relief of acute symptoms. Ultrasound and other newer treatments have also shown positive results in treating plantar fasciitis. If the condition does not respond to more conservative treatment, or the patient is not compliant with the doctor or therapist’s instructions, surgery is an option as well.
If you have been diagnosed with plantar fasciitis, ask your podiatrist or physician if an over-the-counter arch support is appropriate for you. Wasatch Running Center carries a large number of OTC arch supports with a wide variety of arch heights, arch shapes, and varying degrees of cushioning to meet the needs of the individual, as well as products designed to help massage inflamed tissue or provide topical pain relief. Shoes can also play a role in helping someone get over plantar fasciitis, so make sure to let our staff know about the condition during the fitting process.