Category: Education

Plantar-fasciitis

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is a chronic foot pain condition that develops when the fibrous band of tissue under our feet—our plantar fascia—becomes irritated and inflamed. There is some belief that it may actually be a degenerative condition, which makes its treatment and management more complex. Despite its name containing “itis,” which usually implies inflammation, this condition is characterized by the absence of inflammatory cells.

Pain typically starts at the heel and can radiate through the sole of the foot. It is the most common source of heel pain in the US, and it can be tricky to treat.

The good news is with the right steps, it can be treated! Read on to discover how to diagnose plantar fasciitis, get plantar fasciitis pain relief, and how to pick shoes for plantar fasciitis.

Most Common Causes & Risk Factors for Developing Plantar Fasciitis

  • Natural Foot Structure
  • Too Much or Little Physical Activity
  • Occupation or Hobbies
  • Shoe Type
  • Body Weight
  • Pregnancy

Symptoms & Diagnosis

As with any medical condition, it is always best to make an appointment with your doctor to get a formal assessment and diagnosis of plantar fasciitis.

That said, there are a few common symptoms people experience when suffering from plantar fasciitis that might help you know when it’s time to visit the doctor.

  • A stabbing or aching pain starting at the base of the heel or in the arch
  • Increased pain and tightness when waking up in the morning
  • Pain that can subside during activity but returns afterward

Treatment

Your doctor will give you a detailed treatment plan based on your unique case of plantar fasciitis.

That said, there are a few common at-home treatments that can help alleviate pain and inflammation for people with plantar fasciitis.

  • Relative Rest: Your doctor will give you a detailed treatment plan based on your unique case of plantar fasciitis. That said, there are a few common at-home treatments that can help alleviate pain and inflammation for people with plantar fasciitis.
  • Ice: Applying ice can help reduce pain and inflammation, helping to promote healing. You can ice the affected area 2–3x per day to help manage and improve symptoms.
  • Massaging Feet on Ball: Rolling out your arches on a tennis or lacrosse ball can help calm and lengthen the plantar fascia tissue, helping to reduce pain and inflammation.
  • Stretching Exercises: Stretching the plantar fascia and surrounding muscles and tendons can help alleviate stress and pain. See a few stretches and exercises below.
  • Night Splints: There are a variety of over-the-counter night splints and specialized socks that help keep your foot in dorsiflexion (foot flexed toward the shin) overnight. This allows the plantar fascia to stay in a lengthened, stretched state to help reduce pain and stiffness.
  • Supportive Footwear: If you have plantar fasciitis or heel pain, it’s crucial to invest in a quality pair of supportive shoes. Walking shoes with plenty of arch support and cushion can help reduce stress on the plantar fascia and help prevent the condition from returning.

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How to Choose the Best Workout Shoe

Choosing the right shoes is one of the most important things you can do to maximize the effectiveness of your workout routine. The right pair of shoes can provide the necessary support, stability, and cushioning to help you perform at your best, while also minimizing the risk of injury. Whether you’re getting into high-intensity cardio, weightlifting, or cycling, here’s what you need to know about picking the right shoes for your workout.

LifeSavvy spoke with Dr. Shine John, DPM, FACFAS, to learn more.

Why Do Shoes Matter?

Virtually every workout requires a good pair of shoes. It’s hard to underestimate how important it is to put the right gear on your feet.

“Ill-fitting, improper, or inappropriate workout shoes can cause injury, stress fractures, or soft tissue damage to your feet,” said Dr. John.

While it can seem daunting to find the right pair of shoes, there are some guidelines you can follow to make sure your feet stay comfortable and secure. Here are some things to keep in mind when shoe shopping.

Consider Your Workout

The easiest way to narrow down your shoe options is to consider the specific needs of your workout routine. Different types of workouts require different features in a shoe to ensure optimal performance and comfort, explains Dr. John. Each of these workouts will require unique shoes for the best results.

Running

If you’re planning on running a lot, cushioning plays a crucial role in reducing the impact on your joints and minimizing your risk of injury. Look for shoes that offer plenty of cushioning in the midsole to provide a comfortable and responsive ride. The shoe’s drop, or the difference in height between the heel and toe, should also match your running style and preference.

 
Another important factor to think about is arch support. People with flat feet may require shoes with extra arch support, while those with high arches may need extra cushioning and flexibility. Finding the right balance of arch support is key to preventing discomfort and injuries.

Walking

If your workouts mainly revolve around walking, you’ll want to look for shoes that provide the right balance of flexibility and stability. Dr. John recommends shoes that have proper midfoot and arch support, good cushioning, a firmer sole, and a proper width for your foot type.

Flexibility is important because it allows your feet to move naturally as you walk. Look for shoes with soft and flexible materials that will bend and move with your feet, as well as those that have a stable sole and good traction to keep you grounded as you walk. Shoes with arch support will help to distribute your weight evenly and prevent discomfort or overpronation.

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Media and Education

Explore the latest insights in foot health and wellness with KURU Footwear’s 2023 Foot Pain Trends Report.

This comprehensive report covers a range of topics from the causes and impacts of foot pain to practical tips for maintaining healthy feet.

Check out the full report here: https://www.kurufootwear.com/a/reports/foot-pain-2023.

How to Choose the Best Workout Shoes

Choosing the right shoes is one of the most important things you can do to maximize the effectiveness of your workout routine. The right pair of shoes can provide the necessary support, stability, and cushioning to help you perform at your best, while also minimizing the risk of injury. Whether you’re getting into high-intensity cardio, weightlifting, or cycling, here’s what you need to know about picking the right shoes for your workout.

Check out the full Article here: https://www.lifesavvy.com/179166/how-to-choose-the-best-workout-shoes/

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is a chronic foot pain condition that develops when the fibrous band of tissue under our feet—our plantar fascia—becomes irritated and inflamed. Despite its name containing “itis,” which usually implies inflammation, this condition is characterized by the absence of inflammatory cells.

Check out the full Article: https://www.kurufootwear.com/a/shoes/pain/plantar-fasciitis