Prevention of Plantar Fasciitis
Nov 23rd, 2009 by admin
Podiatrists have long blamed plantar fasciitis on ill-fitting, poor quality shoes as a major factor. Many shoes are designed with fashion conscious shoppers in mind, and rarely provide proper plantar fascia support. They often do not provide a proper amount of cushioning which often results in the intense foot pain and problems that are only too well-known amongst sufferers of this condition.
Prevention is the key to avoid plantar fasciitis in the first place. The following will serve as a breakdown of different things one can do to prevent this excruciating condition, as well as proper footwear to consider.
Proper Body Weight:
A primary factor has always been maintaining proper body weight. However, in today’s current exercise craze, many fail to begin a regimen slowly. This will frequently place a large amount of stress on plantar tissue. Additionally, it is crucial that the calf muscle and foot tissue be appropriately stretched before beginning any sort of program. Without a doubt, the flexibility that will result will make the foot less likely to suffer plantar damage. One excellent stretch entails standing with the heel to the ground and toe tips up against a wall. Lean forward at the hip with a straightened knee and hold this position for thirty to forty-five seconds. Three stretches like this should allow for sufficient foot and calf stretching.
Wardrobe:
In today’s economy, it is easy to try to make wardrobe items last as long as possible. Accordingly, many will allow their shoes to wear out, especially if they are used for walking or running. While there are certainly ways to economize in wardrobe purchases, shoe quality should not be one of them. In terms of exercise shoes, many types will have lost their cushion after about 400 miles or roughly six months of use. If either one of these has occurred, it would be advisable to purchase a new pair.
Maintaining proper body weight, a correct exercise regimen and purchasing quality shoes are the best ways to prevent plantar fasciitis. Deserving mention is the fact that many women who suffer plantar fasciitis regularly wear high heels. They are certainly attractive, but can often be a likely cause of severe pain if they are too high. Therefore, try wearing a medium-height heel that has excellent shock absorbency and arch support. In terms of walking or running shoes, remember not to go beyond six months or 400 miles of consistent wear before replacement. This is simply an investment too important to deny. If these recommendations are followed, plantar fasciitis will likely not be a problem.
