The foot pain caused by plantar fasciitis can leave you hobbling through a run. It's tempting to push through the pain to get in your daily jog, but ignoring an overuse injury only means a longer recovery. You can treat plantar fasciitis at home but talk with your doctor to rule out other possible foot injuries, such as a stress fracture.
Significance
Plantar fasciitis is a chronic injury. The condition builds up overtime and more often plagues runners and other athletes who put extra stress on their feet. The heel and foot pain caused by plantar fasciitis may not only prevent you from running, but it can cause day-to-day activities to be painful.
Causes
Plantar fasciitis is caused by excess strain on your plantar fascia. This band of connective tissue runs from your heel to your toes and supports your arch. Microtears and weakening of the fascia, as well as inflammation, contribute to the heel and foot pain associated with plantar fasciitis.
Symptoms
Plantar fasciitis causes sharp pain in your heel, although it's not uncommon to experience pain along the entire bottom of your foot. Pain will be worse when you take your first steps after being off your feet. As plantar fasciitis first develops, you may be able to run and even feel better after running for awhile as your plantar fascia loosens up, but if you continue to put stress on your feet, you may strain your fascia enough to make running impossible.
Treatment
It's important to limit time on your feet to let your fascia heal. Ice your feet to decrease pain and inflammation. Stretch your calf several times a day to prevent your tight muscle from adding tension to your fascia. If your pain does not improve, or if you experience pain even when you do not put weight on your feet, seek a doctor for further treatment and diagnosis.
Prevention
Running with improper foot support contributes to plantar fasciitis. Spending time to find the right shoe fit can help keep your feet healthy. Consider orthotics for extra support. Stretching after every run, especially your calves, keeps your plantar fascia flexible, preventing the strains that causes plantar fasciitis.
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