How do I know If I have Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis can happen to anyone. If you are frequently on your feet for a long period of time, walking or running, it is not uncommon to get plantar fasciitis at some point in your life. It is easiest to determine a treatment for plantar fasciitis, if you know exactly what the problem is.
Symptoms
Plantar Fasciitis is caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia from overuse. The Plantar Fascia is meant to absorb pressures to support the arch, but if there is too much tension, small tears in the fascia can occur.
The resulting symptoms include:
- Pain in and around your heel
- Pain the the arch of your foot
- Pain increasing after vigorous activity, but not during
- The worst pain after getting up from resting for an extended period
- Swelling in the heel and arch
- Consistent pain for weeks to months
- Tightness in tendon through to calf
Diagnosis
It is always best to visit your doctor if you are in severe pain, but there are a few things that can help to determine if you have plantar fasciitis.
Most individuals experience the worst foot pain when they first wake up and get out of bed and gradual reduction in pain throughout the day.
If you are experiencing one or more of the above symptoms, it is likely that you have Plantar Fasciitis. It is best to self treat with the Best 5 Ways to Treat Plantar Fasciitis. If your symptoms do not improve, it is advisable to see a doctor.
Most Susceptible
Runners are often the most susceptible to plantar fasciitis due to the muscles used to take off and begin running, as well as the repetitive stress that the impact of running has on the heel of your foot.
Other activities that put stress on your feet such as power walking, dance, aerobics or working long hours on your feet can also damage the plantar fascia.
If you have abnormal weight distribution in your feet such as high arches or flat feet, you are more susceptible to plantar fasciitis. Additionally, if you are overweight or pregnant, increased weight puts added stress on the plantar fascia.
Women and folks aged 40-60 are the most likely to develop plantar fasciitis.