Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the fascia located at the bottom of the foot and happens to be the most typical cause of heel pain. This fascia runs from the heel to the toes. Plantar fasciitis treatment is generally supportive and is non-invasive in most cases.
The principles that will be used in your treatment are such as;
Modification of Activity
Physicians highly advise on the restriction of activities. This is mainly for those involved in high and repetitive impact activities such as running and jumping. Such physical movements should be avoided during treatment.
Instead, experts recommend low-impact exercises such as swimming and cycling, which also happen to be non-weight bearing activities. Once you are asymptomatic, a gradual return to activities can be considered.
Use of Night Splints
Night splints are mostly recommended to people whose pain is worse in the morning. These devices keep your feet at a 90-degree angle in a dorsiflexed position as you sleep. They prevent shortening of the plantar fascia, thus minimizing pain and recurrence of symptoms. The resolution of symptoms is reported within 12 weeks of use, though the patient may notice an improvement as early as four weeks of continual use.
Pain Management
The use of NSAIDs provides short-term pain relief of the plantar fasciitis. It works best when combined with other treatment modalities and not as a stand-alone.
Orthotics
Also known as inner soles or shoe inserts, orthotics provide extra cushion to the feet by preventing direct pressure from the ground. They also offer additional foot support, thus reducing the weight load on the plantar fascia. Their use is effective in alleviating heel pain, especially in those who are frequently on their feet.
Steroid Injection
Steroid injections in the plantar fascia are useful in providing short-term pain relief. However, caution should be taken as these injections can lead to fat pad atrophy with repeated use.
Heel Cups
These heel-shaped cushions go into your shoes and help raise your heel to reduce tension while giving you extra cushion.
Ice Compressions
Wrap a towel around a plastic bottle with crushed ice. Place it on your heels with minimal pressure 4-5 times a day for 15-20 minutes. One can also put water in a small cup and freeze it. Gently rub it on your heel for 5-10 minutes. This helps reduce plantar fascia pain. Be careful not to put ice directly on your heel.
Exercises and Calf Stretch
They are easy to learn with no costs involved. Stretch your calves, Achilles tendon, and the bottom of the foot. Dorsiflex your toes with one hand while palpating the plantar fascia with the other hand to ensure that it is tight. Hold for at least 30 seconds and repeat three times.
Athletic Tape
Provide support to prevent movement, which aggravates the pain.
Surgical Intervention
Surgery is meant for people whose symptoms have not resolved within 6-12 months with non-operative treatment modalities.
Weight Loss
To prevent excessive weight-bearing and pressure, which often leads to worsening of the pain. Diet and modification and low impact exercises are encouraged.
Conclusion
With the right form of treatment, plantar fasciitis resolves within several months. Combination therapy has been proven to be the most effective in plantar fasciitis treatment.
