6 Myths And Facts About Plantar Fasciitis That You Should Be Aware Of

Plantar fasciitis is a degenerative disorder affecting the thick band of tissue (also known as a fascia) that extends from your heel to your toes at the bottom of your foot. The fascia in your foot supports the muscles and arch. It's possible to acquire microscopic rips on its surface if it's unduly stretched. This might result in irritation and discomfort. Since this condition is quite common, it is essential to distinguish between myths and facts. In this article, we have gathered six facts about plantar fasciitis that you should be aware of.

1. Myth: Flat feet are the only cause of plantar fasciitis

While studies have found a link between foot pronation (flattening of the inner arch) and plantar fasciitis, a high arched foot is also a risk factor. Reduced dorsiflexion mobility (the inability to move the toes toward the nose, which is typically evident with Achilles tightness), a high BMI, jogging, and occupations that require a lot of standing time are all established risk factors (assembly line workers). Other reasons that may predispose a person to this illness include training imbalances, foot muscular weakness, or shoe wear.

2. Fact: Heel pain can be reduced or eliminated by stretching

Heel pain and discomfort were eradicated or greatly improved in 52 percent of patients treated with a plantar fascia stretching exercise program after eight weeks, according to research published in the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery. Although stretching to cure plantar fasciitis symptoms doesn‘t always help right away, it works for many people in the long run. Stretching should be a part of your everyday routine for the best effects.

3. Myth: Plantar fasciitis is caused by heel spurs

Heel spurs might develop if you don't treat your plantar fasciitis. Heel spurs affect about ten percent of the population. Despite the fact that 89 percent of people with plantar fasciitis also have a heel spur, there is no causal link between the two. In fact, 39 percent of those with heel spurs show no symptoms. Furthermore, removing the heel spur is not required for symptomatic plantar fasciitis to be resolved.

4. Fact: Being overweight can increase your risk of plantar fasciitis

Obesity is a contributing factor in 70% of plantar fasciitis instances. In certain circumstances, suddenly gaining weight is unavoidable and even beneficial (for example, pregnancy). However, it is important to maintain a healthy weight to limit the load on your feet and keep them healthy.

5. Myth: Orthotics can cure plantar fasciitis

Foot orthotics (either prefabricated or custom manufactured) can be an effective therapy option for plantar fasciitis. However, they may not be essential as part of the initial treatment. Antipronation tape for a short period of time, which is backed by research, is often useful for symptomatic alleviation. 

Because a positive reaction to taping predicts who would benefit from orthotics, it is a factor to consider for long-term care and recurrence prevention. However, therapy is frequently beneficial, and the frequency and requirement of tape can be reduced or eliminated throughout treatment. As a result, orthotics may no longer be necessary or may only be required during past provocative weight-bearing exercise after a term of treatment.

6. Fact: Athletes are more prone to plantar fasciitis

We put more stress on our heels and, as a result, on the plantar fascia when we walk or run. This constant stretching and contracting of the plantar fascia can cause serious harm to the region over time. As a result, athletes, particularly those who participate in sports that require a lot of running, are more vulnerable to this problem.