Plantar Fasciitis Part 1

Over the next two weeks, I’d like to discuss an easily preventable condition that I see much more often this time of the year.  The condition is called plantar fasciitis and is most commonly experienced by pain in the heels and soles of the feet.  It often begins as a painful annoyance that can quickly develop into sharper pain preventing you from exercising or even walking and can become a more chronic condition.

Plantar fasciitis occurs when the muscles and the plantar fascia ligament along the bottom of the foot become inflamed or torn.  Most of the pain is felt in the middle of the heel where these muscles and ligaments attach.  For this reason, if the condition goes unresolved, the tension on the heel can remodel the bone into a heel spur which is much more painful difficult to deal with.

Why is this condition more common in the summer (especially with women)?  Two words – Flip Flops!  Improper fitting and unsupportive shoes are the most common cause for any foot problem, and for many people flip flop and other sandals are a recipe for trouble.  Another reason for the seasonal nature of this problem is people jumping into an exercise or running routine that they are not used to for the summer.  While the intention is good, you need to start slow and wear supportive shoes.

Next week I’ll discuss how to prevent and resolve this condition.