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Plantar Fasciitis explained..

Definition: The term Plantar Fasciitis means literally “inflammation of the Plantar Fascia”. It is the most common form of heel pain.

Plantar Fasciitis Symptoms

Sufferers will experience a sharp pain when getting up in the morning, or when getting up after resting for a longer period. Usually the pain will subside and become more like a dull ache. Pain is felt at the front of the heel bone, or right in the centre of the heel. Sometimes swelling and redness is present.

What causes Plantar Fasciitis?

The plantar fascia is the thick fibrous tissue that covers the bottom of the foot and runs from the toes to the heel bone. The fascia becomes inflamed and painful right at the point where the ligaments insert into the heel bone (calcaneus).

How to treat Plantar Fasciitis and heel pain

Plantar Fasciitis is very common, especially with the over 50’s. Fortunately, in most cases, intensive medical intervention is not necessary and the condition can be treated at home with some simple measures. Only in very severe cases surgery is required. Research has shown that by applying some gentle stretching exercises and by wearing orthotics (to prevent overpronation) the success rate of plantar fasciitis is 80%. After a few weeks the heel pain will dissappear or at least be greatly reduced.