Chances are, you or a family member has experienced plantar fasciitis at some point during your lifetime. But what is it? And why is it more common in the spring?
Keep reading to discover more about this unique foot ailment, what causes it, and what you can do when your feet are in pain.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of part of the foot known as the plantar fascia. It’s a band located near the bottom of your foot and runs from the heel to the toe. When the inflammation occurs, it will feel like a stabbing pain.
Usually, the pain from plantar fasciitis comes on quite suddenly, but it can also develop gradually over time.
What Causes It?
Plantar fasciitis is most commonly caused by overuse. This is because the plantar fascia is put to work any time you put weight on your foot. Simple movements of standing and walking can lead to the inflammation of this band.
In addition to normal use, increased activity levels and the type of shoes you wear can also lead to plantar fasciitis. Additionally, some individuals are born with a foot shape that places more stress on the plantar fascia. People with this shape of feet are more likely to experience fasciitis with normal walking and movement.
On a smaller scale, if you have been diagnosed with lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, you are more likely to develop plantar fasciitis.
Why Is It Common In The Spring?
If you have just gone for a spring walk and are now experiencing shooting pains in the bottom of your foot, you aren’t alone. Plantar fasciitis is more common in the spring because after a winter of staying off your feet, even just a walk in the park is considered an increase in activity levels.
Your plantar fascia likely hasn’t been worked all winter, so going for a long walk without stretching can place a lot of stress on the band leading to fasciitis.
Another reason it’s more common in the spring is because of the footwear you have switched to wearing. In the winter, it is more common to wear tennis shoes or boots, both of which offer decent support to your plantar fascia.
But when the weather begins to grow warm, many individuals swap their boots for a pair of flip-flops or sandals that have little to no support. As a result, plantar fasciitis is more likely to develop.
What Should You Do If You Have Plantar Fasciitis?
Suffering from foot pain can have a profound impact on your everyday life. If you suspect that you have plantar fasciitis, it’s a good idea to get it looked at by a professional as soon as possible.
Contact Dr. Nik Foot & Ankle Center or go online to schedule an appointment to have your feet checked. Even if you aren’t sure if you have plantar fasciitis, Dr. Nik can help you with any foot or ankle injury you may have, including a sprain or strain.