Heel pain is a common complaint from people with foot problems. In fact, some statistics show that 1 in 8 people will develop heel pain in their lifetime.
But how do you know if you have something more, such as plantar fasciitis?
The classic sign of plantar fasciitis is a sharp, stabbing heel pain that occurs with the first few steps you take in the morning. Does the pain go away after about 10 minutes of moving around? If so, you may have plantar fasciitis.
The general public often calls plantar fasciitis a heel spur. The pain is usually in the front and bottom of the heel. The pain, which can be mild or debilitating, usually occurs after a period of inactivity. It can last a few months or become permanent. For most people, the heel pain subsides in nine to 12 months.
Plantar fasciitis is caused when the long, flat ligament at the bottom of the foot, called the plantar fascia, is stretched and develops small tears, causing inflammation and pain. This tissue is a shock absorber that supports the arch of the foot. Improper shoes, overuse or even how your foot is built can contribute to the irritation or tearing of this tissue.
As many as 1 million people in the United States have plantar fasciitis. The condition appears to become more prevalent as we age. Overweight people are at an increased risk of developing plantar fasciitis, as are runners. And diabetes and some types of arthritis also are risk factors.
Next time, let’s talk about some home remedies that can ease your heel pain.
