If you spend a lot of time on your feet, you are overweight or you are a runner, then you are at an increased risk of developing plantar fasciitis. Your plantar fascia is the long tendon that runs from the heel of your foot to the beginning of your toes. Anything that puts too much stress on this tendon, such as excessive weight or too much stress, can cause the tendon to tear, stretch or become inflamed. When you injure this tendon, it is known as a condition called plantar fasciitis and it is very painful. If you are at risk, or you end up with the condition, then you want to read this article to learn more about it.

The signs and symptoms of plantar fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis will usually cause you to experience pain near the heel of your foot, although this pain can also radiate to other areas on the bottom of your foot. Most times the pain associated with the condition is referred to as a sharp stinging pain, but it can also be felt as a throbbing, burning or bruising type of feeling. You may also experience some swelling on the bottom of your foot when the plantar fascia becomes inflamed.

Preventing plantar fasciitis

In order to prevent the development of plantar fasciitis you want to do what you can to put as little stress as possible on your feet. If you have a job that requires you to do a lot of standing, then you want to try to work in as many sit-down breaks as you can. You should also wear shoes that do a good job of supporting your arches. If you run, wear shoes designed for runners so you know you are getting the right support.

Dealing with plantar fasciitis

If you start to experience symptoms of plantar fasciitis, you may notice that the pain is the worst first thing in the morning. Therefore, you should allow some extra time in the morning to massage and stretch your feet before you attempt to get out of bed. Another way to get relief from the pain is to roll a frozen water bottle back and forth with your foot, slowly. Taking an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory will also help.

It's always important to take the necessary steps to ensure you are decreasing your chances of ending up with a condition like plantar fasciitis. If you start experiencing any symptoms, get in to Northside Foot & Ankle or another podiatrist early on so you can prevent worsening of your condition.