What are the symptoms of plantar fasciitis?
The main symptom of plantar fasciitis is pain in the heel or bottom of the foot. This pain can be:
- Sharp and stabbing, especially when taking the first steps in the morning
- Worse after standing for long periods
- Better after some movement
What causes plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is often caused by repetitive strain on the plantar fascia. This strain can result from:
- Being overweight
- Having flat feet or high arches
- Engaging in activities that put stress on the feet, like running or dancing
How common is plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is quite common, particularly among active people. It can affect people of all ages, but it often occurs in adults between the ages of 40 and 60.
Who is more likely to get plantar fasciitis?
Several factors can increase the risk of developing plantar fasciitis, including:
- Being overweight
- Having a job that requires long periods of standing
- Having foot mechanics that are not as normal, such as flat feet or high arches
How can I treat plantar fasciitis?
Most cases of plantar fasciitis can be treated at home. Common treatments include:
- Resting and avoiding activities that make the pain worse
- Using ice packs to reduce swelling
- Taking over-the-counter pain relief medicine
- Wearing supportive shoes or using insoles
- Doing stretching exercises for the foot and calf
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How to prevent plantar fasciitis?
You can help prevent plantar fasciitis by:
- Wearing shoes with good support
- Avoiding walking barefoot on hard surfaces
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Stretching before exercising
How to live with plantar fasciitis?
Living with plantar fasciitis may require some lifestyle changes, such as:
- Being mindful of your activity levels and how they affect your feet
- Continuing stretching exercises regularly
- Using proper footwear at all times
Final thoughts
If you are experiencing foot pain, it is important to speak to your GP or healthcare provider for advice and treatment options.
