It goes by many nicknames; from ‘policeman’s heel’ to ‘nurses heel’ to ‘runner’s heel’ but one thing is certain, the stabbing, aching pain that is associated with plantar fasciitis is not enjoyable. The good news is that most cases won’t require any surgical intervention but can be alleviated through wearing specially designed shoes for plantar fasciitis. Check out the Orthaheel footwear range for example.
So what is causing the intense heel pain? The pain results from tiny tears and inflammation of the thick ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot between the heel bone and the toes. The ligament is called the plantar fascia and it stretches and retracts every time we step on our feet. The heel pain is often at its most severe first thing in the morning as the plantar fascia tightens throughout the night. Sufferers know that they have to be very tentative when taking their first steps of the day. There are special braces that can be purchased to wear at night-time, or when resting, to reduce the acute heel pain.
People most at risk from developing plantar fasciitis are those in professions that require a lot of standing – hence the nicknames above- as well as people who are overweight as this can cause excessive pressure on the plantar fascia. It follows therefore that pregnant women have higher incidence rates than average. Runners, dancers and people involved in sports that require a great deal of jumping are also high risk groups.
Unless your condition is extremely severe and have caused physical distortion to your foot, it is unlikely that you will require corrective surgery. Most sufferers respond very well after wearing shoes designed for plantar fasciitis or from using corrective orthotic inserts. These work to ensure even weight distribution across the entire foot, both length-ways and from side to side, thereby reducing excessive pressure on particular parts of the plantar fascia. Better foot alignment, improved stability and better posture will also result.