PLANTER FASCITIS / HEEL PAIN

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General Considerations Heel pain can be very difficult to recover from. It has been estimated that 3-6 times your body weight goes through the foot with each step we take. The average person is said to take approximately 10,000 steps per day - making it difficult for the tissues in the foot to recover. Heel pain is very irritating, but rarely serious. It can be caused by a pinched nerve or a chronic condition such as arthritis or bursitis, however the most common cause is Planter Fascitis (an inflamation of the planter fascia, the fibrous tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot connecting the heel to the toes). While heel pain can be frustrating, it doesn't have to disrupt your daily activities. By following the treatment suggestions outlined herein many sufferers have returned to their normal daily routine in a shorter period of time. Common Causes of Planter Fascitis 1. Age - less elasticity of the planter fascia. 2. Increase in weight bearing activities - walking, jogging,heavy lifting, and standing for extended periods of time. 3. Shoes - thin soles, poor arch support with little or no cushion. 4. Weight - excess weight or an increase of as little as 5 to 7 pounds. 5. Flat feet or high arches are contributing factors. The treatment for planter fascitis (heel spurs) involves some simple steps to relieve and reduce the inflammation. While the cure does take time, patients who have used the methods outlined here have noted significant results in as little as one week. Self Help Treatments 1. Cut back on jogging or walking (bike or swim). 2. Ice the area for ten minutes after the activity. 3. Massage the area (rub side to side). 4. Do daily stretching as suggested. 5. Do daily strengthening as suggested. 6. Over the counter anti-inflamatory and pain medications may be helpful. 7. Wear foot wear with good arch support and shock absorbency. 8. Heel pads or cups may support and cushion the heel during recovery. 9. If overweight - consider that less pounds means reduced pressure on your feet. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call CPTI at (303)-460-9129

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