The arch of your foot is comprised of three wide bands of fibrous tissue and when this tissue becomes irritated and inflamed from excessive stress and pressure, plantar fasciitis is often the result. The arch problems can also radiate to the heel where the plantar fascia inserts to the heel bone often contributing the formation of heel spurs.

4 causes of plantar fasciitis include the following:

1. Poorly fitting footwear—Poorly fitting footwear and insufficient arch support can cause overstretching or the plantar fascia.
2. Being severely overweight—Carrying that spare tire puts more pressure on the feet and ankles making the arch of the foot more likely to sustain an injury.
3. Having a shortened calf muscle—Individuals who wear high heel shoes can develop a shorter and tighter calf muscle that increases stress on the heel and arch.
4. Repetitive stress injury—Dancers, professional athletes, and people who are on their feet all day for work are more likely to develop injuries to the plantar fascia and other foot and ankle problems.

Some treatments for plantar fasciitis include the following:

• RICE protocol—The primary initial conservative treatment method is the RICE method which includes Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation.
• Physical therapy—Calf and tendon stretching and strengthening exercises and arch therapy such as rolling your foot over a tennis ball can provide relief for arch pain.
• Proper shoes and orthotics—Wearing shoes with proper arch support and custom orthotic inserts will help prevent arch problems and also treat misalignment problems in the knees, hips, and back.

If you are experiencing arch and heel pain see your foot doctor for the proper diagnosis and treatment. Call Syracuse Podiatry located in East Syracuse, New York. Dr. Ryan L. D’Amico, Dr. Kathleen Pyatak-Hugar and their staff will help you diagnose and treat your foot or ankle condition. Call 315-446-3668 or make an appointment online today.