There are 2 million Americans suffering from Plantar Fasciitis. While surgery is an option for sufferers, the long road to recovery can hinder you in your day-to-day activities. Not all is bleak however, there are a few things you can do to relieve the pain of having Plantar Fasciitis. Some of them do not take much time at all and will become part of your daily routine until you fully recover.
Obese and overweight people tend to have a higher risk for Plantar Fasciitis because of the stress from the extra weight. Low muscle strength in the lower part of the body, those who work at a desk all day and get very little physical exercise, increase the risk of Plantar Fasciitis. Athletes are also just as prone to Plantar Fasciitis, due to the added strain put on their bodies. The continuous jumping, running, lifting, and awkward positions they get into increase the potential for foot injuries.
The common contributing factor of Plantar Fasciitis however is at the workplace, home, or during physical exercise. Usually, it’s not painful enough to warrant medical attention. If injured at the workplace, you need to report this immediately so that it is taken care of before it worsens.
When the foot is healing, it should be held at a 90-degree angle to the leg. This of course can be difficult especially while sleeping because the feet tend to point down.
So what can you do to help alleviate the pain? Make sure you wear comfortable shoes, take walk breaks often, use night splints or socks, and consider doing doctor prescribed strengthening exercises. Painkillers can also be used in conjunction if the pain is unbearable. Another commonly used item that help are shoe inserts or gel insoles.
The healing time varies depending on the extent of your foot problem. Using various techniques and combining them with the right products to help you, will make your transition to recovery less painful.