Ever found yourself wincing in pain after taking that first step in the morning?
You may be dealing with the notorious plantar fasciitis.
Plantar Fasciitis is the diva of foot discomfort, making an entrance by inflaming the plantar fascia – the band of tissue running along the bottom of your foot.
Too much running, standing or improper shoes can trigger plantar fasciitis as well as having flat feet or high arches.
How to treat Plantar Fasciitis
Rest and Ice
Give your feet a break, and apply ice to the affected area to reduce inflammation
Stretching Exercises
Gentle exercises that stretch the Achilles tendon and calf muscles can provide relief
Supportive Footwear
Invest in shoes with proper arch support and cushioning to alleviate strain
Orthotic Inserts
Custom or over-the-counter inserts can help distribute pressure evenly
Physical Therapy
A professional can guide you through exercises to strengthen the muscles supporting the foot.
How to help prevent Plantar Fasciitis
Choose the Right Shoes
Opt for footwear that suits your activity and provides adequate support
Gradual Exercise Increase
Avoid sudden increases in activity; allow your body to adjust gradually
Maintain a Healthy Weight
If overweight, shedding pounds can reduce stress on the plantar fascia
Stretch Regularly
Incorporate stretching exercises into your routine to keep the plantar fascia flexible
Listen to Your Body
Pay attention to signs of discomfort and address them promptly
Plantar Fasciitis can be a bit of a party crasher, but with self-care, comfy shoes, and some basic foot knowledge we can keep on dancing!
Sam ‘off to get a pedicure’ Hobbs