Even though this conditions is often called “ Policeman’s Heel Syndrome” the pain it causes is positively criminal.
Plantar fasciitis is characterized by a stabbing pain or extreme itch at the bottom of your heel.
This pain is caused by inflammation to the tissue connecting the heel bone to the toes. This post’s focus is on the daytime physical activity that causes or adds to plantar fasciitis. For more on the nighttime causes, see Healing Touch Charlotte’s previous post on this ailment.
The daytime physical activities that cause plantar fasciitis are:
- Walking
- Standing
- Exercise and certain activities
Per the Mayo Clinic plantar fasciitis is most common in:
- Runners (and dancers!)
- People wearing shoes with poor support
- People wearing very high heeled shoes
- People between 40 and 60 years of age
- People who stand several hours per day
To alleviate or prevent plantar fasciitis:
- Do Stretching exercises
- Have the correct support and footwear
- Add cushioned insoles to shoes
- Replace outworn shoes, especially athletic wear
(Recommendation Sources: the American Orthopedic Foot And Ankle Society, Mayo Clinic)
Massage can help with plantar fasciitis!
The best type of massage for this condition caused by extreme activity is neuromuscular massage, which will:
- Loosen the fascia, tendons, and ligaments
- Allow the tissues to return to their normal relaxed state
It seems counter intuitive, but this release is best achieved by working on the calf, not the heel itself. Why?
- The calf muscle is often the source of the problem
- This muscle is tightened and is pulling on the heel area
- The heel is simply where the pain is felt – referral pain
Is your daily activity causing you heel pain? Try massage!
