The Plantar Fascia is a band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the bones at the base of the toes. It covers the small muscles along the sole of the foot. It also serves as one of the primary stabilizing structures of the arch on the inner side of the foot. Inflammation of the Plantar Fascia, known as Plantar Fasciitis, typically occurs at the point where it connects to the heel bone. This condition is common among older individuals and those who spend a lot of time standing, walking/running, or participating in sports. It is more prevalent in females and individuals who are overweight.
Rest is crucial for managing Plantar Fasciitis to alleviate strain on the Plantar Fascia and allow tissues to heal. Some cases of Plantar Fasciitis may involve issues with foot biomechanics, such as overpronation. This is where the inner arch of the foot rolls excessively during walking or running, which leads to tightness in the Achilles tendon. Recent research suggests that a tight Achilles tendon can increase strain on the Plantar Fascia.
Inadequate footwear is often a contributing factor to Plantar Fasciitis. Shoes should provide adequate support for the foot to prevent excessive strain on the Plantar Fascia. Orthotic inserts that support the inner arch of the foot can help limit overpronation and reduce stress on the Plantar Fascia and Achilles tendon.
Physiotherapy aims to reduce local inflammation and address biomechanical issues associated with Plantar Fasciitis. Ice packs can help alleviate pain, and stretching the Plantar Fascia by pulling the toes towards the shin encourages tissue realignment and healing. Mobilization techniques may be used to address stiffness in the foot and ankle joints. Additionally, taping has been shown to be effective in supporting the Plantar Fascia and reducing strain on the affected area.
In most cases, Plantar Fasciitis improves with treatment. Severe cases may require corticosteroid and anesthetic injections to alleviate heel pain, followed by a period of rest and gradual resumption of normal activities.
References
1. Buchanan BK, Sina RE, Kushner D. Plantar Fasciitis. [Updated 2024 Jan 7]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK431073/
2. Latt, L. D., Jaffe, D. E., Tang, Y., & Taljanovic, M. S. (2020). Evaluation and Treatmentof Chronic Plantar Fasciitis. Foot & Ankle Orthopaedics, 5(1), –2473011419896763. https://doi.org/10.1177/2473011419896763
3. Umar, H., Idrees, W., Umar, W., Khalil, A., & Rizvi, Z. (2022). Impact of routine footwear on foot health: A study on plantar fasciitis. Journal of Family Medicine and Primary Care, 11(7), 3851–3855. https://doi.org/10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_637_21