Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the plantar fascia, a band of tissue under the foot.

Incidence:

Plantar fasciitis accounts for about 10% of running injuries, and is probably the most common foot injury.

Symptoms:

Typically, a low grade pain gradually occurs in the arch and/or heel of the foot. Initially this may not be so severe as to interrupt training. However, with continued training, the pain may worsen until it becomes impossible to continue. The most characteristic symptom of plantar fasciitis is pain on standing first thing in the morning. Throughout the day, the pain will return and get worse, usually after rest.

Causes:

•  poor foot biomechanics (excessive pronation or supination)
• muscle imbalances
• sudden change in intensity or duration of exercise
• hill or sand running
• incorrect footwear

Treatment:

•  improve poor foot biomechanics, possible with the use of prescribed orthoses
• modify training techniques
• correct footwear
• do plantar fascia and calf stretches
• a cortisone injection may be necessary