Inflammation of the insertion of the plantar fascia to the heel bone (calcaneus) resulting from repeated injuries or stresses.
May be occasionally associated with a LENOIR SPINE, which results from calcification but is not necessarily symptomatic.
Without appropriate treatment, this condition can develop into a chronic and recurring problem. The presence of a partial or complete tear of the plantar fascia is possible.
Presentation
Begins with a dull and intermittent pain in the heel that can evolve into persistent acute pain.
The pain can also be present in the middle of the sole of the foot or near the toes.
Pain generally present in the morning during the first steps, after a prolonged sitting period or at the beginning of a sporting activity.
May cause low back or knee pain due to tread adjustment.
Causes
Flat feet in pronation
Rigid Feet with High Arch
Extended standing position
Shoes not suitable, inadequate or too worn
Abuse of exercise (“too much effort, too early” syndrome)
Soft ground (running on sand)
Activities involving stops and sudden changes of direction
Stiffness of Achilles tendon and calf muscles
Obesity
Aging
Treatments
Decreased inflammation with ice (20 minutes / 2 hours) and complementary therapies such as neurocryotherapy and kinesio taping.
Articular manipulations and soft tissue work (Active Release Techniques and Graston) to correct the biomechanics of the foot and reduce the scar tissue
Exercises to soften the plantar fascia and the Achilles tendon
Exercises to strengthen and stabilize the foot
Plantar orthoses for treating or preventing the condition