Plantar fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain, resulting from inflammation of the plantar fascia, a fibrous tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot from the heel to the toes. It typically occurs between the ages of 40 and 60, although it can happen at any age.
The pain is usually sharp and well-localized, typically occurring in the early morning or when starting to walk. Its causes are numerous, including obesity, trauma or repetitive stress (exercise, dance), high arches, flat feet, or gait abnormalities. Diagnosis is primarily clinical; imaging studies are sometimes ordered as needed.
Initial treatment is conservative and consists of relative rest, comfortable footwear, padding, and weight loss. Ice after exercise can help relieve pain and reduce inflammation in acute phases, and applying local heat can be helpful in cases of chronic inflammation. Physical therapy involving stretching of the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon is also beneficial.
Pharmacological therapy focuses on pain management. It may also require injections, shockwave therapy, and, as a last resort, surgery. Recovery is usually satisfactory but prolonged; patience, proper footwear, conservative measures, individualized treatment, and preventing the condition from becoming chronic are key.
Dr. Lucia M. Gonçalves Jardim
Internal Medicine Physician.
Specialist in Endocrinology and Metabolism
Email: luciamgoncalvesj@gmail.com
Telephone: +351 939 056 458