Plantar Fasciosis: How Long Can It Last?
Plantar fasciosis, also called fasciitis, is an inflammation of the fascia of the foot. Specifically, it is a major cause of heel pain. Although it is more common among sportsmen, it can affect anyone.
As the article published in the Annals of Internal Medicine reports , 2 million people in the United States suffer from this disorder. It is the cause of one million visits to general practitioners. What is the treatment for plantar fasciosis? How long can it last?
What is plantar fasciosis?
Plantar fasciosis is caused by degenerative irritation of the fascia of the foot. The latter is a band of connective tissue that runs from the calcaneus, bone in the heel, to the lower part of the toe bones.
This structure performs a very important function when we walk: it absorbs energy when the foot hits the ground, preventing the metatarsals, or the bones that make up the toes, from flexing incorrectly. In addition to this, it maintains the shape of the arch, which gives stability and balance to the body.
Some studies suggest that around 10% of the population may suffer from fasciitis at any given time in their life. However, it is more easily found among athletes, because the bands are more subject to stress and load. Other risk groups include:
- Subjects with hollow and flat feet.
- Women who use very high heels.
- Overweight and obese subjects.
- Workers or workers whose profession requires standing for a long time.
What are the symptoms?
The prevailing symptom is pain, the intensity and localization of which varies according to the case. Typically, however, it affects the inner part of the ankle, which coincides with the insertion of the fascia into the heel.
The pain is generally more acute when taking the first steps after waking up. This is because during the night, with rest, the band is shortened and consequently it is tighter in the morning.
During the day, with activity, the pain becomes more bearable thanks to the distension of the fascia. Finally, if during the day you overload it with an excess of activity, at the end of the day the pain reappears more intensely. In long-lasting fasciosis, the pain becomes continuous, therefore present throughout the day.
Diagnosis and treatment
Diagnosis is based on the patient’s clinical picture and a physical examination performed by a specialist doctor. Treatment of plantar fasciosis consists in the adoption of a series of therapeutic measures. Among the most important are:
- In the acute phases of pain, anti-inflammatories are prescribed. The specialist will decide the type of anti-inflammatory and the most appropriate dose.
- Sessions of different therapeutic techniques. Depending on the severity of the injury and the affected subject, the physiotherapist will establish the most suitable technique for the case.
- The use of specific footwear for both daily activities and physical activity.
- Maintain an acceptable weight.
- Muscle and fascial stretching exercises to be performed correctly after each activity.
- The use of adapted insoles in cases where the fasciosis depends on the natural shape of the foot.
How long can plantar fasciosis last?
The duration of the lesion varies according to the subject. In some cases, it can last a few weeks or even months. Sometimes, however, the injury becomes chronic.
The pain, in this case, is almost constant and can even affect the quality of life of the subject, limiting his daily activities. When the injury becomes chronic, it can affect the knees, and even the hips and back, altering the normal gait.
In this case it is essential to consult the specialist as soon as the first symptoms are felt. Timely diagnosis and treatment significantly reduce the risk of complications.
What to remember about plantar fasciosis?
Heel pain may be the clinical manifestation of plantar fasciosis. Although it often occurs in a mild and temporary form, in some cases it can become chronic and compromise the person’s quality of life. It is therefore preferable to consult your doctor in case of suspected injury. Prompt treatment of fasciosis also determines its duration.
