Your plantar fascia is a strong band, or layer, of tissue on the sole of your foot. The Cleveland Clinic states that your plantar fascia is attached to your heel and travels forward to attach at the ball of your foot, and that inflammation or degeneration of this tissue is one of the most common causes of pain on the bottom of your heel or your foot arch. Natural supplements may reduce the pain in your plantar fascia. Ask your physician if supplements are right for you.
Plantar Fasciitis Pain
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common foot-related conditions. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, plantar fasciitis is responsible for about 2 million doctor visits annually. The Academy notes that plantar fasciitis manifests when your plantar fascia becomes irritated and inflamed. Tight calf muscles, obesity and rapid changes in your activity levels may contribute to this condition. Footwear that pinches your toes together and elevates your heel may also contribute to this condition.
Natural Supplements
Many natural supplements may be appropriate in treating your plantar fasciitis-related pain. Herbs that possess both anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving action may be among the most effective natural supplements. Helpful anti-inflammatory herbs include turmeric, nettle, feverfew, bromelain and licorice, notes herbal medicine expert and naturopathic physician William A. Mitchell Jr., author of "Plant Medicine in Practice."
Highlighted Supplement
Wild yam may be a commonly used supplement in the treatment of plantar fasciitis pain. According to certified nutritional consultant Phyllis A. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," wild yam helps decrease inflammation and has been used in treating numerous ailments, including rheumatic conditions, abdominal cramps, peritonitis, neuralgia and female disorders such as premenstrual syndrome and pain in the uterus, cervix or ovaries. Wild yam possesses antispasmodic action.
Additional Information
Plantar fasciitis may be debilitating, and it can affect your ability to walk and perform your usual daily tasks and activities. If you develop pain in the sole of your foot, schedule an appointment with a foot specialist to have your condition properly assessed. If you are considering using natural supplements to help treat your plantar fasciitis, always discuss supplement-related issues -- dosage, side effects and drug interactions -- with your physician first.
References
- Cleveland Clinic: Plantar Fasciitis
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons: Plantar Fasciitis and Bone Spurs
- "Plant Medicine in Practice"; William A. Mitchell Jr., N.D.; 2003
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
