Plantar fasciitis is a painful foot disorder that can affect both individuals who are very physically active and those who very sedentary. The condition can make strengthening your feet and legs through a normal high-impact routine virtually impossible. However, rest and simple flexibility training can help treat your condition and allow you to resume your normal routine.
Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the tissue running along the bottom of the foot that connects the toes to the heel. The condition can occur in either one or both feet, and is characterized by a sharp, stabbing pain in the heel. The pain is usually worse when you first get up in the morning, and gradually alleviates as you walk around. However, it may worsen again if you remain stationary for an extended period of time.
Plantar Fasciitis Impact on Foot Strength
The stabbing pain of plantar fasciitis can make many workout routines extremely uncomfortable. This is especially true of exercises that involve repeated pressure or impact on the feet, such as running, jogging, jumping, deadlifting or squatting. The pain from plantar fasciitis is not the type that you should simply push through, however. You must allow your feet time to rest and heal, even if this means you cannot strengthen your feet and legs as much as you could with your normal routine. However, you can substitute low-impact exercises such as swimming to help you stay active while you heal.
Factors that Impact Plantar Fasciitis
Intrinsic foot strength is one of several factors that can impact plantar fasciitis. However, the strength and flexibility of the muscles in the calf are the ones that primarily impact the feet. A tight Achilles tendon, in particular, can increase your risk for plantar fasciitis. Being significantly overweight, having abnormally shaped foot arches and wearing shoes that provide poor support are all factors that can also increase your plantar fasciitis risk.
Treatment
If you have plantar fasciitis, you should visit your doctor to determine its severity. In most cases, you will simply need to abstain from high-impact activities, apply ice to your feet for about 20 minutes three to four times daily and take an over-the-counter pain and inflammation medication. Stretching your calf and foot can also help treat your condition, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Your doctor can tell you if more extensive treatment is necessary.
