Plantar Fasciitis: What is it & How to Relieve Pain?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain, estimated to affect about two million people in the United States. It is caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of the foot and connects the heel bone to the toes.

The plantar fascia is what primarily supports the arch of the foot, and it is essential to maintaining normal foot function while walking or running.

Symptoms of plantar fasciitis include sharp pain in the heel or arch, especially when standing or walking after a period of rest, and pain that is worse in the morning or after long periods of standing or walking. The pain may also be worse when climbing stairs or when the arch is stretched.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

There are several factors that can contribute to the development of plantar fasciitis, including:

• Overuse
• Poor footwear
• Underlying medical conditions
  • Obesity, diabetes, or flat feet
• Natural structure or shape of the foot
• A sudden increase in activity

Ultimately, plantar fasciitis pain is caused when the plantar fascia ligament is strained. This straining can occur for several different reasons, so it is important to pinpoint the source of the problem.

As with any issue, it will only get worse if it is left untreated. That is why proper footwear and visits to the podiatrist are essential to finding a solution.

How To Relieve Plantar Fasciitis Pain

Thankfully, there are many ways to relieve pain associated with plantar fasciitis that can easily be put into practice.

• Regularly, stretch and massage the foot arch gently.
• Rest and raise feet when the soles and heels start aching.
• Place an ice pack at the arch of the foot.
• Wear shoes with cushioned heels and arch support.
• Invest in cushioned insoles.

Those are just a few ways that plantar fasciitis pain can be relieved, and at Propét Footwear, we’ve designed shoes to specifically help manage and prevent plantar fasciitis pain.

In severe cases, surgery may be necessary. However, it does not need to come to that. It is possible to be proactive by prioritizing foot health before a foot ailment like plantar fasciitis becomes a major issue.

If you are experiencing pain in the heel or arch of your foot, it is important to see a doctor or other healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment. Ignoring the pain or continuing to participate in activities that cause the pain may lead to further damage and prolonged recovery.

Trust, Comfort, Style

We believe everyone has the right to walk the dog, jog, run errands, hike, work, take a line-dancing class, mow the lawn, travel, or even play a game of hopscotch, really whatever you want, without foot pain.