Do you have the classic signs and symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis?

• Sharp pain at your heel and arch itself
• Pain first thing getting out of bed
• Soreness and sensations of a dull ache under the arch throughout the day
• Soreness from sitting to standing
• Discomfort when standing or walking most of the day
• Discomfort when sitting most of the day

Then your most likely to be experiencing Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is dreaded by many. It can take a long, long time to recover properly on it’s own without being proactive about it. The pathology is still not well understood due to it’s complex band structure.

Below we will set out some what of a blueprint to help heal your plantar fasciitis effectively.

But first what is it?

Plantar Fasciitis is the Latin term for “inflammation of the plantar fascia”. The plantar fascia is a thick, complex ligament consisting of three bands that runs under the foot from the base of the heel to the toes. Among its many functions it serves to form an arch under the foot and helps propel ourselves forward with every step we take.

The plantar fascia is not a muscle, therefore is restrained in its ability to stretch or elongate.

This is where the problem lies: when a harsh repetitive force is applied on the plantar fascia for example walking everyday on a hard flat concrete ground with unsupportive footwear, micro-trauma and tearing will occur, causing pain, thickening and fibrosis to the fascia.

What causes it to occur?

The main cause of plantar fasciitis is the tractional pull and stress at the plantar fascia under the foot.

There are a few factors as to why the fascia is overstretching:

• Repetitive activities
• Long periods of standing
• Genetic predisposition (Flat feet)
• Improper foot mechanics
• Weight gain
• Age
• Unsupportive footwear
• Walking barefoot