Plantar fasciitis is inflammation of the muscle band that lines the sole of the foot. Specifically, the arcuate ligament that crosses the lower part of the foot and connects the heel with the toes is involved. This ligament is subjected to great stress when walking, running and above all jumping. In fact, it has a very important role in transmitting body weight to the foot. This inflammation develops very often in sports subjects, but it is also very common in obese or overweight people and in pregnant women. It also often develops in those who wear shoes that place excessive stress on the heel and arched ligament of the foot. Heelitis can develop as a consequence of the inflammation foot pain treatment.
Fasciitis is characterized by pain that is usually most acute in the morning when getting out of bed. After making the first movements, it tends to decrease, only to flare up after sitting for a long time.
Symptoms resolve, in 80% of cases, with the use of over-the-counter drugs most often within six months of starting treatment. Among the possible remedies there are also several measures that are aimed at counteracting a series of biomechanical and environmental factors believed to be responsible for the onset of inflammation. Among these we have a series of stretching and strengthening exercises of the plantar fascia. However, the use of specialized devices (such as splints, insoles, etc.) is very important. Recently it has been seen that great therapeutic efficacy is obtained through the use of shock wave based therapies. The latter is a non-invasive method that brings anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving and stimulation benefits to tissue repair.
Shock waves are acoustic waves capable of propagating in the tissues, in a rapid and repeated sequence and exert a sort of deep “micro-massage” inducing the cells to produce anti-inflammatory substances and growth factors.
Among the measures that can be put in place to avoid the onset of pain there is certainly the recommendation to avoid carrying out those activities that force you to stand for a long time. It is also recommended to use ice packs to get pain relief and reduce inflammation. Certainly the most important recommendation is to choose suitable footwear. The shoe should resume the natural shape of the arch, providing support, impact protection and containment of the foot.