Plantar Fasciitis occurred when the fascia (web-like substance) on the bottom of your foot is irritated and inflamed. Let’s break down the name of the injury. Plantar refers to the bottom of your foot, fascia refers to the type of substance that is injured, and itis is inflammation.
How do I know if I have it?
Below are the signs and symptoms that may be associated with this injury, but not all injuries follow the textbook description.
Signs:
- Bruising on the bottom of the foot
- Swelling on the bottom of the foot
Symptoms:
- Pain on the bottom of the foot
- Increased pain with walking
- Increased pain in the morning, better throughout the day
- Tender when touching the bottom of your foot
What causes it?
There is a wide variety of causes to this injury including, but not limited to:
- change in footwear
- improper walking
- excessive walking
- walking on hard surfaces
- Tight muscles (calf muscle, hamstrings, gluteus maximus)
What do I do to fix this?
Every person is different. This is why you should book an appointment to see what the cause is to determine an effective treatment.
Orthopedic Exam should consist of:
- Arch check
- Check for tightness in calf muscle, hamstring, hips
- Check for mobility in the spine and extremities
- Check gait (see how you are walking)
- Locate area of tenderness
Treatment may consist off:
- adjusting ankle
- strengthening arch
- myofascial release (deep tissue) of the plantar fascia
- trigger point massage
- home excercises