Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common problems that cause heel pain, often associated with being overweight or overloaded with physical activity. This is due to inflammation of a thick band of fibrous tissue (fascia) that runs across the sole of the foot and connects the heel bone to the toes. On this occasion, Dr. Baldwin Angelino, orthopaedic surgeon at Clinica Ricardo Palma, will give us more information on the subject.

Symptoms

The most characteristic symptom of plantar fasciitis is shooting pain on the bottom of the foot, near the heel. This pain is usually more intense when taking the first steps after waking up, although it can also appear when standing for a long time or when getting up from sitting, when going up the stairs or doing strenuous activity.

Causes

The plantar fascia occurs when the tissue found on the sole of the foot (fascia) is stretched or overloaded too much, since being a band that connects the heel bone with the sole of the feet, it supports the arch of the foot and absorbs the impact of walking. This constant inflammation can degenerate it.

Treatment

The usual treatment of plantar fasciitis can be carried out through three steps:

1. Start by changing the anti-inflammatory medication with different physiotherapy treatments. All this is aimed at reducing inflammation in the area in the acute phase of the problem.
2. In a second phase, which should be started as soon as possible, a correct study of the gait must be carried out and assess whether the cause of the fasciitis is related to the shape of the foot and the way the patient walks. If this is the reason, it is necessary to design and manufacture an insole that allows the fascia to relax. Also, the use of heel cups can help in initial periods.
3. After the acute phase is over, it is very important that the patient adopt correct habits regarding stretching, use of appropriate footwear and a healthy life.

Prevention

Plantar fascist can be prevented as follows:

• Use of appropriate footwear, both for daily use and for physical exercise: Correctly choosing footwear is very important to avoid developing these pathologies.
• Maintain a healthy weight: This will avoid overloading the heel and overloading the plantar fascia.
• Do stretching exercises for the sole of the foot on a regular basis.

Remember that ignoring plantar fasciitis can lead to chronic heel pain that will make everyday activities difficult. Also, you may change the way you walk to avoid pain, which can lead to foot, knee, hip, or back problems.

Dr. Baldwin Angelino
Orthopaedic surgeon at Clinica Ricardo Palma