An estimated 2 million people in the U.S. struggle with heel pain, according to a study published by the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Many things can cause heel pain. However, in most cases, plantar fasciitis is the culprit. For those unfamiliar with plantar fasciitis, it is a foot condition characterized by inflammation of the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue connecting our heel bone to the base of our toes. The role of the plantar fascia is to absorb shock and support the arch of our feet whenever we walk or run.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
Aging is one of the most common causes of plantar fasciitis. Available data shows that the foot condition is exceedingly common among individuals aged 40 to 60. Men and women in this age range often suffer from the degeneration of collagen fibers that make up the plantar fascia. Along with aging, the following can cause plantar fasciitis:
- Being overweight or obese
- Walking, running, or standing for long periods
- Wearing shoes that don’t adequately support the feet
Along with painful heels, many people with plantar fasciitis report experiencing pain in the arch of their feet. Other commonly reported symptoms include stiffness and swelling. Fortunately, many at-home treatments can relieve these and other plantar fasciitis symptoms, some of which include over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), topical pain relievers, and wearing supportive shoes. In extreme cases, however, relief from plantar fasciitis may require corticosteroid injections or even foot surgery.
Discover More Ways To Say Goodbye to Heel Pain
In summary, plantar fasciitis causes heel pain, swelling, and stiffness. And all of this can adversely affect someone’s overall quality of life. To learn more about at-home and medicinal treatments for plantar fasciitis, contact First Coast Foot and Ankle Clinic at www.firstcoastfootclinic.com. We are a medical group that takes tremendous pride in helping people suffering from heel Pain in Jacksonville, FL.
