The most common cause of heel and arch pain is a condition called plantar fasciitis. This is an inflammation of a thick band of tissue that runs along the arch of your feet from your heel to your toes, and aids in stabilization of your arch during walking and running. Symptoms involve two areas -- the arch, and more commonly, the inside heel area. Severe pain can be present,especially in the morning on arising. Common symptoms of plantar fasciitis include:
• Pain in the morning when you first get out of bed
• Pain and stiffness when you start to walk after sitting for a while
• Increasing pain in your heel or arch towards the end of the day
• Tired feet at the end of the day
Other causes of heel and arch pain include arthritis, infection, fractures
and sprains, or even certain systemic diseases. Because of the multiple
possible causes you should see your podiatrist for a thorough evaluation
if you are experiencing heel or arch pain that does not respond quickly
to early treatment.
What causes Plantar Fasciitis?
Heel and arch pain is usually the result of faulty biomechanics (walking gait abnormalities) that place too much stress on the heel bone and the soft tissues that attach to it. This increased stress causes local inflammation and pain. The most common cause of this increased stress is a condition where the inside arch of the foot flattens more than it should (often known as "over-pronation"). When the arch of the foot flattens, it also gets longer-causing a stretch on the plantar fascia.
How is Plantar Fasciitis treated?
The SHOES-n-FEET®Medical Advisory Committee tells us that plantar fasciiits almost always responds to conservative treatment. Surgery is almost never required.
Early treatment should focus on reducing the “tugging" on the plantar
fascia. Our medical committee recommends:
• Wear stable shoes.
• Use high-quality over-the-counter arch supports in your shoes.
• Ice your feet several times per day.
What if the pain doesn't go away?
In more difficult cases of plantar fasciitis you should see your foot health professional for a thorough examination. They will find out why your pain occurred in the first place and devise a treatment plan to only relieve your pain in the short run and to prevent it from reoccurring. They will evaluate your feet, walking pattern (gait), shoes, activities, exercise methods, and other relevant information and then devise your treatment plan.
Is Surgery Ever Necessary?
Our Medical Advisory Committee informs us that with adequate conservative care, surgery is almost never necessary for plantar fasciitis.
You should always give conservative treatment at least six months to work.
Conservative treatment may include several of the following: physical therapy,
anti-inflammatory medications, exercises, shoe recommendations, prefabricated
arch supports and / or custom prescription orthotics.
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