Plantar fasciitis is a common foot ailment that can cause significant discomfort and disruption to daily activities. It's characterized by a stabbing pain in the heel, typically felt most during the first steps of the day.
Despite its prevalence, many individuals find their plantar fasciitis not getting better despite various treatments.
This article aims to shed light on plantar fasciitis condition, its causes, and potential treatments, as well as why some people might struggle to find relief.
Understanding Plantar Fasciitis
To know why your plantar fasciitis is not improving, you need to understand what plantar fasciitis is.
Plantar fasciitis is a condition that results from inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot, connecting your heel bone to your toes. The plantar fascia is a dynamic structure. It acts like a shock absorber supporting the arch of your foot and acts as a rigid lever to allow for propulsion when you take a step. However, too much pressure on your feet can irritate the plantar fascia, causing heel pain and stiffness.
Research shows plantar fasciitis is particularly common among runners, those who stand a lot, and those who are overweight, as both these groups tend to put a lot of stress on their arches. Other risk factors include age (it's more common in people between the ages of 40 and 60),, foot mechanics (being flat-footed, having a high arch, or even having an abnormal pattern of walking. All of these can affect the way the weight is distributed when you're standing and can put added stress on the plantar fascia), and others who spend most of their work hours walking or standing on hard surfaces.
Why Your Plantar Fasciitis May Not Be Getting Better
Despite your best efforts, you might find your plantar fasciitis not getting better. This can be due to a variety of reasons:
Insufficient Rest: The plantar fascia is under constant strain when you're on your feet. Without adequate rest, the tissue doesn't have a chance to heal properly, prolonging the inflammation and pain.
Inappropriate Footwear: Studies show shoes that do not provide proper arch support or have thin soles can exacerbate plantar fasciitis. Shoes that are also too worn cause plantar fasciitis. You should switch out your shoes every 300 miles.
Lack of Stretching or Incorrect Exercises: A tight plantar fascia and tight calves can cause plantar fasciitis. Stretching helps to improve the flexibility of the plantar fascia and reduce tension. However, not stretching or doing the wrong exercises can hinder recovery. I recommend going through a routine of morning stretches for plantar fasciitis.
Continued High-Impact Activities: High-impact activities like running and jumping can put excessive stress on the plantar fascia, aggravating plantar fasciitis.
Weight: Being overweight stresses your plantar fascia, making it harder for the inflammation to subside.
Understanding these factors can help you make necessary adjustments to your lifestyle or treatment plan to aid in your recovery.
Treatment Options for Plantar Fasciitis
There are several treatment options for plantar fasciitis, ranging from home remedies to medical interventions. Here are some of the most common:
Rest and Ice: Icing the plantar fascia can help reduce irritation adn provide pain relief, while rest the plantar fascia to heal.
A Targeted Exercise Program for Plantar Fasciitis: A series of exercises to stretch the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon and to strengthen your hips and foo core can alleviate pressure on the plantar fascia.
Orthotics: Arch supports also know as inserts or orthotics can distribute pressure to your feet more evenly decreasing the stress on your plantar fascia.
Night Splints: Your doctor might recommend wearing a night splint for plantar fasciitis relief. A night splint holds the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon in a lengthened position overnight and facilitates stretching.
Steroid Injections: Injecting corticosteroid medication into the plantar fascia area can relieve temporary pain.
Surgery: Few people need surgery for plantar fasciitis. It's generally an option only when the pain is severe, and all else fails.
Remember, not all treatments work for everyone. It's important to find a solution that works for you and aligns with your lifestyle.
When to Seek Medical Help
While plantar fasciitis can often be managed with home remedies and lifestyle changes, there are times when it's important to seek professional medical help. If your plantar fasciitis is not getting better despite your best efforts, or if the pain is getting worse, it's time to consult a healthcare professional.
Keep in mind, studies show, 90% of all plantar fasciitis cases get better within 3-6 months with conservative care. Keep in mind someone who is in the later stages of plantar fasciitis may take longer.
You should also seek medical attention if the pain interferes with your daily activities, like not being able to walk, or if you're experiencing numbness, tingling, or weakness in your foot. These could be signs of a more serious condition.
A healthcare professional can provide a proper diagnosis and guide you toward the most effective treatment options for your specific situation. They may also refer you to a specialist, such as a podiatrist or orthopedic surgeon, for further evaluation and treatment.
Conclusion
Plantar fasciitis is a common but often misunderstood condition. While it can be painful and frustrating, especially when it seems like your "plantar fasciitis is not getting better," understanding the condition, its causes, and potential treatments can go a long way in managing the symptoms and promoting recovery.
Remember, everyone's body responds differently to treatment. What works for one person may not work for another. It's important to listen to your body and seek professional help if your symptoms persist or worsen.
With the right approach, it's entirely possible to overcome plantar fasciitis and return to your regular activities without pain.
