The plantar fascia, or arch tendon, is a thick band of connective tissue that runs from the heel to the front of the foot. It is made of three distinct parts: medial, central, and lateral bands. The central band is the thickest and strongest and is the portion most likely involved in plantar fasciitis pain. Read More.

In normal function the plantar fascia acts as a shock absorber and support mechanism for the arch of the foot. During gait, or movement, the plantar fascia acts like a spring to conserve energy and provide propulsion. Tension increases while the foot is on the ground to store the energy and is then released during toe-off to help with acceleration.

Plantar Fasciitis literally means inflammation of the plantar fascia, but most cases are more degenerative changes rather than inflammatory ones. A new term being used to accurately describe the condition is plantar fasciosis. The condition accounts for about 10% of runner related injuries and is twice as predominant in women than in men. Because of this high incidence in runners, microtrauma from repeated stress is believed to be the primary base cause.

Causes are often multifaceted and can range from biomechanical (poor form) to cellular (poor diet) and any combination of the possibilities in between. Activities such as running, bearing significant amounts of weight for long periods of time, jumping, and dancing can all cause repeated stress along the plantar fascia – especially at the junction with the heel. Those who pronate (roll their feet in during walking and running), are overweight, wear poorly fit or worn shoes, or who have abnormal foot structure are at greater risk of developing plantar fasciitis. Heel spurs on the toe side of the heel are often the result of long term plantar fasciitis, but heel spurs on the back of the heel are a separate condition.

Training errors are also primary causes. Rapid increases in activity intensity or duration, abrupt addition of explosive movements or hill workouts, or a change to running on extremely hard surfaces can all be mistakes that cause plantar fasciitis. Using appropriate footwear and adjusting the training over time is highly recommended in addition to diligently stretching the plantar fascia and calf muscles throughout new activity. Athletic shoes lose their cushion rapidly with intense activity and should be changed often to maintain healthy movement.

Tightness in the calf muscles or the Achilles tendon can greatly exacerbate or promote plantar fasciitis. Loss of movement in the ankle, weak or imbalanced leg and foot muscles, as well as the aging process can all be additional factors.

Pain is almost always felt on the underside of the heel and most often along the arch of the foot. Most individuals report that pain in worst with the few steps in the morning or after long periods of inactivity. Pain is generally made worse by walking barefoot on hard surfaces, walking up stairs, sprinting, or spending long periods of time standing. Often it is difficult bending down or bringing the toes to the shin and long time sufferers who remain active without treatment often have accompanying knee and hip pain. Taking weight off of the foot generally relieves pain. However, symptoms return as soon as the foot is again placed under weight.

Using KT Tape for this condition has shown tremendous results in alleviating pain and promoting the healing process. KT Tape provides comfortable and conformable support for the arch serving to relax the foot and reduce inflammation. Reduced activity, stretching the calves, massage therapy, weight loss in overweight individuals, foam rolling, ice, and NSAIDs can all serve to help alleviate symptoms and treat plantar fasciitis. Stretch the calves and plantar fascia before going to bed and before getting out of bed.

Additional recommendations include:

• Wear appropriately fit shoes with the appropriate support
• Stretch well prior to exercise
• Avoid hard surfaces
• Ice after activity
• Avoid long periods of standing still
• Implement multiple activities for cardiovascular exercise such as swimming, cycling, rowing, etc.
• Seek conservative wellness care

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