Do You Have Intense Pain In Your Heels?

Has this ever happened to you?  You wake up, swing your feet out of bed, and the first few steps you take cause an intense pain in your heels?  If so, you may be one of the millions of people who suffer from plantar fasciitis every year.  It is one of the most common causes of heel pain, and it can be particularly debilitating for those who enjoy an active lifestyle. 

            Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the tissue on the bottom of the foot, known as the plantar fascia.  This band of tissue connects your heel bone to your toes, and helps provide the structure and support required of your feet for walking.  The inflammation is caused by a straining of the band of tissue, which can happen in a number of different ways.  One of the most common ways for the pain to occur is when a person who has been seated or lying down for an extended period of time first stands up, putting weight on their feet.  It is for this reason that plantar fasciitis often is first noticed in people getting out of bed in the morning.

            As the day goes on, the pain may temporarily goes away, only to come back later in the day or possibly the next day.  The pain is usually worsened by long periods of standing, or walking up stairs.  There are many methods of treating plantar fasciitis, including:

·         Icing the effected area

·         Stretching the plantar fascia tissue with a towel or other stretching device

·         Reducing the amount of time you stand on your feet, or cutting back on some of the activities that exacerbate the pain, such as running. 

·         Taking an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory, such as ibuprofen, naproxen, or aspirin.

·         The use of orthotics in your shoes, and getting a new pair of shoes, with arch support and a cushioned heel.  The shoes should be comfortable to wear for extended periods of time.

 These methods work better for some than for others, and it is often a combination of several factors that will ultimately alleviate the pain.  Talk to your doctor about any heel pain you may be experiencing, as it may be a sign of a potentially more serious condition, especially if that pain occurs while lying down at night.  Together with your doctor, a plan can be put in place to get you back on your feet again, pain free!

Central Florida Foot & Ankle Center, LLC
101 6th Street N.W.
Winter Haven, FL 33881
Phone: 863-299-4551
http://www.flfootandankle.com