With today’s push for more and more healthy lifestyles, many people are turning to physical activity to do so. Some of this includes running or jogging which is a great way to lose weight or just keep in shape. With this, though, can come foot pain caused by a condition known as Plantar Fasciitis.
Plantar Fasciitis is an inflammation of the tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot and connects your heel bone to your toes. Most likely you will immediately feel a stabbing pain in your foot as soon as you wake. The pain may improve during the day, but most likely will return after standing for long periods of time or rising suddenly from a seated position.
Risk Factors for Plantar Fasciitis include:
- Age - Common between the ages of 40 and 60.
- Exercise - Activities that place a lot of stress on your heel - long-distance running, jumping activities, ballet and aerobic dance.
- Foot mechanics - Having flat-feet, a high arch or an abnormal pattern of walking affecting weight distribution.
- Obesity - Excessive weight.
- Occupation - Factory workers, teachers, construction workers, nurses and others who spend a lot of time hours walking or standing on hard surfaces.
Ignoring Plantar Fasciitis symptoms can cause further foot, knee, hip or back problems so seeing a podiatrist is crucial. Treatments include:
- Examination - Physical examination of the inflamed site.
- X-Ray or MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) - To check damaged nerve or fracture.
- Medicine- Doctor prescribed pain meds.
- Stretching - Simple foot stretches to help alleviate the pain.
- Therapy - including Physical therapy, Night Splints and the use of orthotics.
- Surgery - at times this may be the last resort if the pain is not subsiding.
If you believe you run the risk of getting Plantar Fasciitis then you will want to start losing weight, always wear good running shoes, choose footwear that is supportive, has good arch support and absorbs shock well. Such common-sense approaches may just keep your feet pain free and you better able to improve your overall health.
If you have any issues or notice pain while trying any exercise, make an appointment with our board-certified podiatrist, Dr. Brad Toll. He will assess your feet and find the appropriate treatments to get you back to being active. Call Crofton Podiatry at (410) 721-4505, which provides services to Crofton, Gambrills, Odenton, and Bowie, MD areas.