The Importance of Proper Footwear in Preventing Plantar Fasciitis

Regular stress and strain on the feet can lead to the development of a foot condition called plantar fasciitis, which is associated with heel pain. Left untreated, plantar fasciitis can get worse over time and lead to other problems, such as heel spurs. Dr. Angelo Pace, the board-certified podiatrist at Advanced Pace Foot and Ankle Center in Alexandria, VA, treats plantar fasciitis and other foot conditions.

Causes of Plantar Fasciitis

The plantar fascia is a band of connective tissue that extends from the heel to the toes along the bottom of the foot. The plantar fascia tissue provides arch support and shock absorption and helps stabilize the foot. Plantar fasciitis develops when the tissue gets damaged, causing inflammation and pain. Over time, daily wear and tear, overuse, and repeated stress can result in plantar fasciitis.

Some causes of plantar fasciitis include:

• Long-distance running
• Walking around or standing on hard surfaces for long periods
• Activities that put stress on the heels, such as dancing and certain sports
• Overpronating or having an irregular gait when walking
• Wearing shoes without sufficient support
• Being overweight

Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis 

The most common symptom of plantar fasciitis is pain or discomfort along the bottom of the heel. Another sign of the condition is stiffness or pain along the arch. Additional symptoms experienced by some individuals include a tight achilles tendon and swelling around the heel.

Pain and stiffness tend to be more intense upon waking and then diminish after being up and moving around for a bit. However, they can get worse again after sitting down or standing for long periods. Taking breaks regularly and gently stretching the feet helps prevent this.

Footwear for Preventing Plantar Fasciitis

Several measures can be taken to prevent plantar fasciitis. These include maintaining a healthy body weight and varying workouts to minimize repetitive movements and prevent overuse. Another way to prevent plantar fasciitis is to gently stretch the feet throughout the day, especially after sitting or standing for a long time.

One of the important steps you can take to prevent plantar fasciitis is to wear the right shoes. Footwear should fit well, not be too tight, and provide enough support for the arches. Having support helps reduce strain on the plantar fascia tissue. The knowledgeable podiatrist at our Alexandria, VA office can help prevent plantar fasciitis by recommending footwear suited to your unique foot structure and gait.

Footwear for preventing plantar fasciitis should have the following characteristics or features:

• Proper fit, not too tight
• Cushioning for the heels
• Shock absorption
• Arch support
• Flat base, no high heels

Pain and stiffness in the heel or arch are signs that you might have developed plantar fasciitis. Call Advanced Pace Foot and Ankle Center in Alexandria, VA, at (703) 971-7100 for the Walker office or (703) 360-9292 for our Sherwood location to schedule an appointment with Dr. Pace for the diagnosis and treatment of plantar fasciitis.