Heel Pain from Plantar Fasciitis and Heel Spurs

What is it?

Plantar Fasciitis is inflammation of the plantar Fascia, a ligamentous band running across the sole of each foot from the heel to the toes.
The inflammation is caused by excessive tension and stress and feels like a deep bruise which is most painful when you first stand on it in the morning or after sitting.

Why does it happen

It is usually linked to a combination of causes.

Tight calf muscles cause more tension in the plantar fascia during normal walking. Add to that very flat heeled shoes like golf shoes or flat sandals. Then add a sudden increase in the amount of walking you do or an increase in weight.

Furthermore it is often found that excessive pronation is an underlying cause for plantar fascial strain.


It all amounts to a substantial increase in stress on the plantar fascia.

Treatment

In the acute phase treatment is concentrated on relieving pain. Anti-inflammatory medication, Ice packs and a course of Ultrasound therapy can be very effective.

If it has become chronic treatment is directed at reducing the causes of tension in the Plantar fascia. Calf stretching exercises, heel lifts in shoes, weight reduction and foot orthotics to control over pronation.