What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis occurs when small tears form in the plantar fascia, the bowstring-shaped band of tissues that runs along the bottom of your foot to connect your heel bone to your toes. This band normally supports the arch in your foot, cushioning your heel from impact, but if the stress of walking or other standing activities becomes too great, the fascia becomes inflamed and irritated, causing heel pain.
Symptoms
People with plantar fasciitis commonly experience severe heel pain as their primary symptom. Heel pain is often greatest in the mornings, after exercise, and after long periods of sitting. Middle-aged or elderly people, runners, and obese people are more likely to experience these symptoms as the fascia are put under greater pressure.
Other Risk Factors
Some people are at a higher risk of developing plantar fasciitis because of their foot mechanics. People with flat feet, high arches, or certain patterns of walking may cause weight distribution that can increase the stress on the plantar fascia. People with jobs that require long periods of standing or walking are also at increased risk of plantar fasciitis. Supportive shoes can help cushion your heels and prevent the development of plantar fasciitis.
Treatments
Treating plantar fasciitis is often based on resting, icing, and stretching. Many people can recover within several months. Night splints, physiotherapy, orthotics, and foot massage can also help improve or speed up the healing process.
Foot Massages
Foot massage and reflexology can help to stimulate the nerves in the area and increase blood flow. Applying certain pressures and massaging areas of the feet during this treatment are thought to promote healing as the foot massage loosens tight ligaments, tendons, and small foot muscles which can alleviate the pressure on the plantar fascia.
Alleviate Your Symptoms with a Foot Massage
If you have ever experienced intense heel pain, and are wondering: what is plantar fasciitis? You’ll be relieved to know that plantar fasciitis can be managed with non-invasive remedies to reduce discomfort and improve the healing process. Wayne Massage provides a relaxing experience with a revitalizing, Chinese tradition-based method. Contact us by calling (02) 8073 9281 to learn how a foot massage can help your healing process for plantar fasciitis.
