As the most common cause of heel pain, plantar fasciitis can compromise your
ability to function normally, especially if you are on your feet a lot. More common
in middle-aged adults, plantar fasciitis begins when the ligament that supports your
arch becomes strained, which can happen due to any number of factors.
Luckily, you don’t have to simply live with the discomfort that this condition can
cause. Of course, your treatment options will always depend on the severity of your
pain. However, there are many beneficial options at your disposal when you turn to
both traditional and alternative methods.
Common Causes and Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis can be caused by any number of factors, including:
• Foot Structure – Many people with this condition have either flat feet or
high arches.
• Lifestyle Factors – If you are overweight, or have to remain on your feet for
long periods of time, you are much more likely to develop plantar fasciitis.
• Shoes – Shoes that don’t fit or are severely worn can cause plantar fasciitis.
• Walking – Plantar fasciitis can also be caused by how you walk, especially if
your feet roll inward.
After understanding the causes, you’re probably wondering just what plantar
fasciitis feels like too. The most frequent sign that the pain you’re having is due to
plantar fasciitis is if your heel pain appears right after you’ve been at rest for long
periods of time.
Of course, there are other signs too, such as:
• Pain that worsens when climbing stairs, standing on your toes, or after
standing for long periods of time.
• Pain that appears early in the morning, subsides, and returns as the day goes
on.
Treatment Options for Plantar Fasciitis
Mild cases of plantar fasciitis can typically be corrected with minor changes such as
limiting your activity, wearing more supportive shoes, and doing simple exercises
such as toe and calf stretches.
However, those with more severe cases might need additional treatment that can
include custom shoe inserts, or orthotics, a walking cast, night splints, corticosteroid
shots, or surgery in some rare cases.
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