Plantar Fasciitis is an inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot. This tissue becomes inflamed due to overuse or strain. Plantar fasciitis often occurs after a period of new exercise, mainly if people are not used to exercising regularly. Over time, it can develop into chronic pain. The best way to prevent plantar fasciitis is to stretch your arches and calves before going on a new exercise routine or sport that will put an increased amount of stress on your feet. A Midtown East plantar fasciitis specialist may prescribe anti-inflammatory medications to help treat the condition. Still, you should avoid taking these medications if you are breastfeeding or pregnant. But what causes the condition? Here is some information you may find helpful.
Overuse
The most common cause of plantar fasciitis is overuse or excessive strain. When you walk, run or exercise, the muscles that cross your arch need to be strong enough to handle the pressure. If they are not, the plantar fascia tissue will begin to tear. This makes it inflamed and extremely painful for anyone who steps on it. The arch will be extremely difficult to press because of the pain, and the individual may not be able to walk or stand for long periods due to tenderness.
Many exercises can cause plantar fasciitis, including running, dancing, and aerobics. The condition is prevalent in ballet dancers because they have to point their toes.
Age
Your feet will naturally lose some of their arches as you grow older. This is a normal process that everyone goes through, but it can cause plantar fasciitis, especially if you are not used to exercising regularly or your old shoes no longer fit. If your arches fall too much without the required strength in nearby muscles around them, it will cause an immense amount of pain.
Obesity
Anyone obese or overweight will have an extra strain on their arches, leading to plantar fasciitis. This is especially true if they are not used to exercising. The added weight is too much for the arch to handle, so it will begin to tear and become inflamed.
Tight Achilles Tendon
If your Achilles tendon is too tight, it can cause an immense amount of pressure on the arches. This added pressure will strain your arches and plantar fascia tissue if the Achilles tendon is not stretched out properly.
Flat Feet
If you have flat feet, you are more likely to develop plantar fasciitis because there is insufficient support for the arch. As you walk, your foot is supposed to roll inward slightly as it hits the ground so that the plantar fascia does not become too strained or inflamed.
Shoes Lacking Cushions
If you do not have proper shoes and your feet are constantly hitting the floor, it can cause plantar fasciitis. Shoes should always have plenty of cushioning to help absorb shock so that you do not injure your arches.
In summary, plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the plantar fascia. You can develop it due to overuse, age, obesity, and having a tight Achilles tendon. Flat feet and wearing shoes without cushions for a long time can also cause the condition.
