PLANTAR FASCIITIS / Heel Spur Syndrome Definition: Inflammation of the plantar fascia. Description: The plantar fascia is a tight band of tissue on the bottom of the foot which extends from the heel bone to the base of the toes. It acts as a bowstring to prevent collapse of the arch, dissipate shock, provide stability to the joints, and restore spring in your step. Impact, injury, overuse, abnormal foot structure or function put strain on the plantar fascia with resulting pain on weight-bearing at the heel or into the arch. Prolonged repetitive stress can develop heel spurs. Conservative treatment such as the ‘Lavac Strap™ can provide comfort, protection, relief, and prevent recurrence of this disabling condition.
If sufficient impact, strain or pressure is exerted on the bottom of the foot, the fascia may stretch or develop micro-tears. Although plantar fasciitis seldom comes from one specific injury, five main causes can be identified: ► A sudden turn or impact that exerts great pressure within the tissues of the bottom of the feet; ► shoe without adequate support for the arch, especially in people with rigid or high-arched feet; ► shoes with very stiff soles; extra force is required at toe-off during activities and this may stress the plantar fascia; ► feet that pronate excessively – when the feet flatten and roll inward during walking or running; when added tension is put on the plantar fascia; ► increased stress on the plantar fascia secondary to excessive weight or high-impact sports, such as running, aerobics, basketball, or tennis. Diagnosis: There is pain with pressure over the plantar fascia at the heel bone. There may be swelling and inflammation. The pain is usually worse in the morning. It gets worse with activity and better with rest. X-rays may show a bony spur arising from the surface of the heel at the site where the plantar fascia is attached. This is an adaptive response of the body and the surface of the bone may become inflamed. Heel and arch pains may be caused by other medical conditions and may require additional diagnostic tests. Treatment: Treatment for plantar fasciitis includes rest, biomechanical treatment such as the correct shoes, tape support, Achilles tendon stretching, and physical therapy; medical treatment such as anti-inflammatory drugs, cortisone, acupuncture, and; surgery which includes release of the plantar fascia and removal of the heel spur. A more complete publication written by Dr. Hlavac on Conservative Care for Plantar Fasciitis is available on this website. Tape support, properly applied is the best immediate care for relief of plantar fasciitis. The ‘Lavac Strap™ has been designed to support the foot like adhesive tape.
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