Plantar fasciitis is a common condition that causes pain in the heel and bottom of the foot. It is caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs from the heel bone to the toes and helps support the arch of the foot.
The exact cause of plantar fasciitis is not always clear, but it is often associated with overuse or repetitive strain on the plantar fascia, increase in lumbar lordosis, upward pull in the sacrotuberous ligament or laxity in the sacroiliac ligaments, leg length discrepancy. Other factors that can contribute to plantar fasciitis include:
Foot mechanics: Flat feet, high arches, or abnormal walking patterns can put additional stress on the plantar fascia, leading to inflammation and pain.
Age: Plantar fasciitis is more common in people between the ages of 40 and 60.
Obesity: Excess weight puts additional pressure on the plantar fascia, increasing the risk of inflammation and pain.
Tight calf muscles: Tightness in the calf muscles can put additional stress on the plantar fascia.
Improper footwear: Shoes with poor arch support, thin soles, or worn-out cushioning can increase the risk of plantar fasciitis.
Entrapment of medial calcaneal nerve or motor branch of abductor digiti minimi nerve.
Anterior tilt of ilium bone - weak adductor hallucis muscle, internal rotation of cuboid and navicular bone, upward pull of biceps femoris and peroneal muscles, increased lumbar lordosis or shortening of psoas major, weakness in gluteus maximus muscle.
Sacroiliac joint dysfunction.
Overall, plantar fasciitis can be caused by a combination of factors, and it is important to address any contributing factors to prevent or treat the condition effectively.
The following is a general rehab protocol for plantar fasciitis:
Rest: Avoid activities that aggravate your symptoms. This may include taking a break from running, jumping or any high impact activities.
Ice: Apply ice to the affected area for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day. This will help reduce inflammation and pain.
Stretching: Stretching the calf muscles and the plantar fascia can help relieve pain and improve flexibility. Hold each stretch for 30 seconds and repeat several times throughout the day.
Strengthening: Strengthening exercises can help to improve the strength and stability of the foot and ankle muscles. Some recommended exercises include towel curls, marble pickups, and heel raises.
Massage: Massaging the foot can help improve circulation and reduce pain. Use a tennis ball or foam roller to massage the bottom of your foot.
Orthotics: Wearing shoe inserts or orthotics can help provide support to your foot and reduce pressure on the plantar fascia.
Footwear: Wear shoes that fit well and have good arch support. Avoid wearing high heels or shoes that are too flat.
Osteopathy: An Osteopath can work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that may include CORRECTING THE ARCH OF THE FOOT BY MANIPULATING THE CHAIN OF BONES THAT ARE AFFECTED BY RELEASING THE TIGHT MUSCLES, IMPROVING THE BODY MECHANICS AND POSTURE AND THUS REDUCING THE INFLAMMATION. Stretching exercises, strengthening exercises are thought to improve mobility, reduce pain and inflammation.
The goal of osteopathy treatment for plantar fasciitis is to restore proper function and alignment of the musculoskeletal system, reducing pain and improving mobility.