Plantar Fasciitis and Heel Pain

Plantar Fasciitis and heel pain are closely related. Plantar Fasciitis is an inflammation caused by excessive stretching of the plantar fascia (tissue that extends the entire length of the bottom of the foot). Heel pain is a common condition in which weight bearing on the heel causes extreme discomfort.

Contact your family doctor or Podiatrist to ask them how Birkenstock footwear or arch supports can help treat symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis and heel pain. Also, feel free to contact your local Birkenstock retailer about their healthy footwear recommendations. Birkenstock has many products that can help with Plantar Fasciitis and Heel Pain.

Causes of Plantar Fasciitis or Heel Pain

Plantar Fasciitis often leads to heel pain, heel spurs, and/or arch pain. The excessive stretching of the plantar fascia that leads to the inflammation and discomfort can be caused by the following:

• Additional or excessive weight on the foot, usually attributed to weight gain or pregnancy
• Wearing shoes without any arch support or proper arch support
• Over-pronation (flat feet) which results in the arch collapsing when bearing weight
• A foot with an unusually high arch
• A sudden increase in physical activity

Symptoms

With Plantar Fasciitis, the bottom of your foot usually hurts near the inside of the foot where the heel and arch meet. The pain is often acute either first thing in the morning or after a long rest, because while you are resting, the plantar fascia contracts back to its original shape. As the day progresses and the plantar fascia is adequately stretched, the pain often subsides.

Treatment & Prevention

The key for the proper treatment of plantar fasciitis and heel pain is determining what is causing the excessive strain and stretching of the plantar fascia, or heel discomfort. Ask your family doctor or Podiatrist (foot doctor) to find the best solution for your ailment. Often times, they suggest changing your footwear as a first step toward recovery.

You can reduce the strain and stress on the plantar fascia by following these simple instructions:

• Don’t go barefoot
• Try stretching exercises in bed or before standing, focusing on your Achilles tendon, calf, and toes
• Ice your heels (or the painful area) 2-3 times a day to reduce inflammation
• Wear shoes or orthotics (arch supports) that support your arch and heel
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Avoid running on hard or uneven ground
• Wear shoes and/or arch supports which have proper shock absorption in the heel.