Plantar Fasciitis is perhaps one of the most common causes of heel pain. Those who suffer from it often experience pain due to the inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that connects the heel and toes. Anyone can suffer from it, however, runners, those who are overweight and those who wear shoes with inappropriate support most commonly develop it.
Knowing Your Enemy: Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar Fasciitis causes a stabbing pain in the bottom of the foot near your heels. It’s most commonly experienced early in the morning, when you take your first steps. As the day progresses, and your foot begins to limber up, the pain will decrease. However, after standing or sitting for long periods of time, the pain may return once you move.
The plantar fascia is essential to shock absorption and support in the arch of your foot. When tension becomes too great, the fascia may begin to develop small tears. Repetitive stretching and tearing can cause the fascia to become inflamed and irritated. Other causes include wearing old or inflexible shoes, particularly high or low arches, spending long hours on your feet and tight calf or stiff ankle muscles.
The pain caused by Plantar Fasciitis often hinder your regular activities, and can even change the way you walk as you attempt to find a way to move without pain. The awkward movement can cause foot, knee, hip or back problems to develop.
Prevention is Possible
You can take precautions to prevent houston nose job. There are some techniques and tips that can aid you in keeping yourself healthy and pain free.
1. Relax a little.
By relaxing your lower legs, in particular the ankles and calves, whenever you are running, walking, standing or sitting, you can prevent tension. If tension is kept anywhere in the legs, it will pull on the plantar once you begin to move.
2. Walk correctly.
Many people walk and land with a heel strike. This keeps the plantar from doing its job, and puts additional stress and impact damage on your heels. Instead, land evenly on the middle of your foot when you walk or run.
3. Go with gravity.
While it may feel natural to pull forward with your legs when you walk or run, it’s actually harmful to your body. Instead, allow your upper body to lead and your legs to follow. You should lean slightly forward from your ankles, maintain a short stride and land your feet evenly beneath your center of mass.
4. Flat surfaces are your friends.
Try to take your walks, or runs, on as flat a surface as possible as often as possible. Uneven footing can trip you up and potentially cause more harm and stress on your plantar.
You should avoid following trails, going up hills and other uneven surfaces, including stairs. A good, deep foot massage can also aid in keeping your plantar in a healthy state. If you take these precautions, you can maintain your body fairly well. Also if any pain persists for an extended period of time you should consult a Local Austin Foot Doctor.