Plantar fasciitis involves pain and inflammation of a thick band of tissue, called the plantar fascia. This condition affects a significant portion of the population, according to "Huffington Post" writer and podiatric medicine specialist, Dr. Robert Kornfeld. The condition is very common and often eludes physicians as to the cause or true cure. In the conventional treatment of this condition, many doctors treat the foot and not the rest of the body. Kornfeld notes that nutrition can positively affect plantar fasciitis, as it globally improves systemic issues such as inflammation and nutrient deficiency. Always discuss taking any supplement with a health care professional before use.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are long, 20-carbon chain lipids that the body requires in the form of food, as it cannot produce its long, kinked chains endogenously. Omega-3 fatty acids are found in many deep, cold water fish, as well as in walnuts and flaxseeds. Dr. Kornfeld suggests that omega-3s can be extremely helpful in healing plantar fasciitis.These fats are noted as being anti-inflammatory in a 2005 "Alternative Medicine Review" article. Specifically, they are described as being able to suppress inflammatory chemicals found in conditions such as autoimmune disease and arthritis. Many conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, hypertension and diabetes are believed to result from chronic inflammation, according to a Nov/Dec 2005 article in "Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine." Plantar fasciitis is described as a chronic inflammation and retraction of the fascia on the bottom of the foot. Dr. Kornfeld notes that the conventional treatments of plantar fasciitis, such as cortisone injections, indiscriminately reduce inflammation that causes pain. However, omega 3's are more beneficial as they help stimulate healing and reduce pain.
Glucosamine
Glucosamine is a substance that serves as a precursor to the connective tissue of the body. Additionally, the 2005 "Alternative Medicine Review" article notes that it is an effective pain reliever and been proven by studies to be as effective as over-the-counter pain relievers like NSAIDs. As a structural component of connective tissue and collagen, the substance can help strengthen, repair and regenerate the taut and inflamed foot fascia. The article notes that the use of glucosamine is supported by other collagen and connective tissue nutrients like vitamin C and zinc. A 500 mg dose of glucosamine three times per day is recommended.
Bromelain
Bromelain is a proteolytic, or protein digesting enzyme, taken from the pineapple fruit. It is indicated by the 2005 "Alternative Medicine Review" article as a substance that can reduce signs of inflammation such as pain and swelling. It is an anti-inflammatory substance and can improve symptoms during movement and rest, when plantar fasciitis is often the most bothersome. The article suggests taking bromelain between meals and in divided doses between 500 and 2000 mg per day.
References
- "The Huffington Post": Plantar Fasciitis -- Overcoming Heel and Arch Pain Naturally
- "Alternative Medicine Review": Plantar Fasciitis -- Diagnosis and Therapeutic Considerations
- PubMed.gov: Inflammation, pain, and chronic disease -- integrative approach to treatment and prevention
- MayoClinic.com: Plantar fasciitis
