How to Relieve Pain when Dealing with Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis occurs when your plantar fascia ligament is inflamed or torn and causes pain in the bottom of the heel. The ligament stretches from your heels to your toes, and anyone on their feet, often walking on hard surfaces, is at risk of suffering from plantar fasciitis. It often feels like an aching or stabbing pain along with swelling in the heel. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you should seek treatment. 

What are the causes?

An inflamed or torn plantar fascia ligament occurs when there is too much pressure or stretching to the ligament. In most cases, there is no specific cause, but some circumstances would make you more susceptible. For example, if you have flat feet or don't wear shoes that support your feet, you can be at a higher risk. You can also be more at risk if you are a runner, stand for prolonged periods, or if you are obese. 

Symptoms

Pain caused by Plantar fasciitis develops gradually. One significant sign is tenderness in the heel. Other symptoms include sharp or dulling pain in the bottom of the heel or nearby, pain in the foot's arch, heel swelling, and a tight Achilles tendon. Most people will generally have worse pain when first getting up in the morning or after sitting for an extended period.

Relieving Pain

Pain caused by plantar fasciitis can last up to twelve months. Therefore, rest is a crucial step for healing and pain relief. It is essential to keep weight off of your foot until inflammation goes down.  Icing is an easy way to reduce inflammation. Over-the-counter pain relievers can offer pain relief and help with inflammation also. You can perform stretches on your calf, Achilles tendon, and heel that help relieve pain and improve muscle strength and flexibility in the foot. Another great way to help with pain is adding heel inserts to your everyday shoes to help cushion your heel when walking around. Vitamin C, Zinc, glucosamine, bromelain, and fish oil are all supplements that contain nutrients that may help improve and prevent plantar fasciitis. In most cases of plantar fasciitis, heels over time without surgery; however, in some cases, surgery is necessary. Always consult your doctor to determine what treatment is proper for you.