What is plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is a painful condition that affects the tissues on the sole of the foot, specifically the plantar fascia. The problem occurs when this part of the body becomes inflamed or irritated due to excessive stress or repetitive injury.

Symptoms

A person with plantar fasciitis may exhibit numerous symptoms, such as:

Pain in the lower heel area, which can be described as a stabbing or burning sensation, predominantly in its central portion
Sharp pain when taking the first steps in the morning or after long periods of rest
Pain when standing for long periods or when climbing stairs

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of plantar fasciitis is based on the reported symptoms and the physical examination conducted by a healthcare professional, and occasionally with complementary exams.

The professional will ask questions about the symptoms, including when the pain started, its intensity, and any risk factors such as a history of injuries or wearing inappropriate footwear.

Although the diagnostic suspicion is made only through history and clinical examination, imaging tests such as X-rays may be conducted to confirm the diagnosis and also to rule out other conditions that may cause pain in the soles of the feet and heels.

Treatment

The treatment aims to reduce the inflammation of the tissues, providing pain relief and initiating recovery. Thus, it can be summarized as:

Rest and reduction of physical activity to reduce stress on the inflamed area
Application of ice to the affected area to reduce inflammation and pain
Stretching exercises for the tendons and muscles of the lower limbs, as well as strengthening these regions
Use of appropriate footwear that provides cushioning and support for the foot

Additionally, the use of orthopedic insoles may be necessary, as well as pain and anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy to strengthen the foot muscles. Weight control and physical activities are also important to achieve good treatment results.

One of the most efficient and safe resources that have emerged in recent years for the treatment of plantar fasciitis is Shock Wave Therapy (SWT). In this treatment modality, physical waves are applied to the tissues of the heel and sole of the foot using a small device, promoting more efficient inflammation reduction.

In specific cases, when various treatment forms do not present results, surgery may be considered.

It is very important to seek a healthcare professional to receive a correct diagnosis and an appropriate treatment plan for plantar fasciitis, taking into account the severity of the condition and the individual needs of each patient.

Prevention

There are strategies that can help prevent plantar fasciitis:

Use specific footwear for the activities you intend to perform, preferring well-structured shoes with thick soles that absorb the impacts characteristic of each activity
Perform stretching and strengthening exercises for the muscles of the feet and legs, maintaining body mass control whenever possible
Strictly follow sports training programs to avoid excessive activities and undesirable impacts on the locomotor system as a whole and on the feet in particular. It is always easier and more practical to invest in the prevention of fasciitis than in its treatment