5 Tips For Dealing With Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is a common, albeit very painful, foot condition caused by the inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs through the arch of the foot from the toes to the heel. This condition can cause shooting pain on the bottom of the foot and difficulty walking properly. There is no quick fix for plantar fasciitis, as the plantar fascia tissue is typically slow to heal, but there are several things that can be done to manage pain and promote recovery:
Wear Supportive Shoes
If you're suffering from plantar fasciitis, supportive shoes are essential. Shoes without support, such as flip flops or other sandals should e avoided. Look for shoes that have ample arch support in order to take pressure off of the bottom of your foot. Avoid going barefoot as much as possible-- it is a good idea to even wear supportive shoes around the house at all times.
Get Orthotic Insoles
Supportive shoes combined with orthotic insoles can go a long way in easing the pain caused by plantar fasciitis and helping the tissue to heal. There are a number of orthotic insoles availale in stores, but if you have an extreme case of plantar fasciitis, you may want to visit a podiatrist to have custom insoles made for the exact shape of your foot.
Reduce Inflammation
Reducing inflammation is one of the keys to relieving discomfort and promoting recovery of the area. Using an ice pack on the bottom of the foot can help, along with taking over the counter anti-inflammatory medications such as naproxen or ibuprofen. No matter how painful your foot is, be mindful of the dosing instructions and never take more medcation than recommended.
Stretch the Foot Regularly
Regularly stretching the foot can help increase the flexibility of the plantar fascia, while also strengthening the muscles that support the arch of the foot. Since most people do not stretch their feet on a regular basis and may not be familiar with how to do it, it can be very helpful to consult a podiatrist to learn how to do the proper stretches so they are effective.
Give Your Foot Rest
While plantar fascittis can strike anyone, it is very common in athletes that run often or in people who walk long distances on a regular basis. During your recovery period, it is important to reduce your activity and give the foot time to rest. Failure to do this can put additional stress on your foot and impede healing.
For more information, contact clinics like High Desert Foot & Ankle Clinic - Wonsik Y Bollmann DPM.