Plantar Fasciitis

HEEL PAIN INTRODUCTION

The most common cause of heel pain is plantar fasciitis which is commonly referred to as a heel spur. Plantar fascia is a broad band of fibrous tissue which runs along the bottom surface of the foot, from the heel to the toes. Plantar fasciitis is a condition in which this plantar fascia is inflamed. This condition can be very painful and cause considerable amount of suffering. Long standing inflammation causes the deposition of calcium at the point where the plantar fascia inserts into the heel. This results in the appearance of a sharp thorn like heel spur on x-ray. The heel spur is Asymptomatic (not painful) the pain arises from the inflammation of the plantar fascia.

APPEARANCE OF A HEEL SPUR

o There will no visible

o Often the pain is worse on first rising in the morning and after rest.

o It may severely limit activities.

o Aggravated by prolonged weight bearing & thin soled shoes.

o The patient may also complain of shootings pains.

CAUSES OF HEEL PAIN

o Excessive load on the foot from obesity is a major cause of plantar fasciitis. That is why this condition is most common in middle aged and over weight adults. The plantar fascia is not able to withstand excessive pressure.

o A sudden increase in weight, such as pregnancy can also lead to heel pain.

o A sudden increase in walking or a sporting activity can also be a contributing factor. A classical example is a post man who returned to work after a period away from the job can develop this condition.

o A tight plantar fascia (this is often caused by tight calf muscles).

o Excessive flattening of the arch on weight bearing.

o Biomechanical problems (walking abnormalities) are a major cause of plantar fasciitis.

o Different type of arthritis can also lead to this condition such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid