The plantar fascia is a lengthy, thick tissue that goes from your heel to your toes. This tissue provides support for your foot muscles and arch. Plantar fasciitis is characterised by pain in the bottom of the heel.
What exactly is Plantar Fasciitis?
Microscopic tears in the plantar fascia tissue can occur when it is overstretched, producing irritation and pain. The most prevalent cause of heel pain in Singapore is a disorder known as plantar fasciitis.
Plantar Fasciitis: What Causes It?
Plantar fasciitis can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
A repetitive strain injury to the ligament on the sole caused by:
- Running excessively
- Walking excessively
- Shoes that are too small, ill-fitting, or have a high heel
- An injury caused by a poor landing after a jump
- Flat feet
- The high arch
- Achilles tendonitis
What is the Most Effective Treatment for Plantar Fasciitis?
Doctors usually start with non-surgical treatments for plantar fasciitis. The goal is to reduce inflammation and avoid subsequent injuries. Non-surgical options include:
- Putting ice on the affected area
- Massage of the feet
- Stretching exercises are the emphasis of physical therapy.
- Injections of cortisol
- Proper footwear with padded insoles is required.
- Inserts for orthotic shoes
If non-surgical treatment fails, plantar fasciitis surgery may be the best option. The most common surgery involves removing the fascia from the heel bone. After that, you’ll wear a boot or splint and rest your foot while it heals.
What Happens If You Don’t Treat Plantar Fasciitis?
If plantar fasciitis is not addressed, complications can occur. For example, chronic heel discomfort can prevent you from carrying out your daily duties. You may also alter your walking style to compensate for the heel pain, leading to knee, foot, back, or hip problems.
How Can Plantar Fasciitis Be Treated at Home?
At-home treatments include the following:
Stretching: Simple leg and foot stretches improve strength and flexibility, which aids in inflammation reduction.
Ice your heel for 10 to 20 minutes when you have foot discomfort to minimise inflammation.
Massage the soles of your feet gently with your hands or a foam roller to reach afflicted regions.
Is Plantar Fasciitis Reversible?
Plantar fasciitis resolves typically in 3 to 12 months with non-surgical therapy.
Does Plantar Fasciitis Self-Heal?
Plantar fasciitis can go away independently, but the discomfort might last more than a year. Complications can emerge if not treated. It is preferable to consult your foot doctor soon away and begin non-surgical therapy.
When Should You Consult a Physician About Plantar Fasciitis?
If you have heel pain, consult your doctor to discover the source of the pain and the best treatment. For example, it might be plantar fasciitis or something else.
