How Reflexology can Help Plantar Fasciitis

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar Fasciitis is the most common foot pain diagnosis. Plantar Fasciitis is a painful inflammatory condition causing heel pain and in some cases also heel spurs. Plantar Fasciitis literally means inflammation of the plantar fascia. The plantar fascia is the connective tissue that encapsulates the muscles of the sole of the foot. It supports the foot like a bowstring between the ball of the foot and the heel.

What is the Cause?

Plantar Fasciitis is a repetitive stress syndrome. It is usually caused by the calves being too tight which then pulls on the calcaneus (heel). The calcaneus is the site at which the plantar fascia begins. This pulling on the calcaneus causes the entire plantar fascia to be too taught. Micro-tears develop in the fascia, scar tissue develops and re-tears by the bearing of weight. Some cases result in pain being felt under the foot, in the arch area. If continuous pulling of the fascia takes place at the heel it may lead to the development of a bony growth known as a Heel Spur. A painful cycle then sets in when your foot, which naturally tightens at night, immediately gains new tears each day with your first steps in the morning.

Age, weight gain, walking, tight calf muscles and achilles tendons, weakness of the foot, poorly-fitting shoes, standing or sitting for long periods, and a variety of sports activities can all contribute to this ailment. Shoes such as flats or heels cause increased pressure on the heel resulting in sharp pain. During sports activities or workouts in the gym, using incorrect footwear can also create tension or pain on the heel due to impact.

How Reflexology Can Help Plantar Fasciitis Reflexology helps address Plantar Fasciitis by loosening the ligaments and muscles in the foot and lower leg, by increasing circulation, and by improving flexibility. Clients who routinely receive reflexology sessions experience less pain in the foot, heel and lower leg and are able to maintain full flexibility during routine activities.

The following website gives additional information regarding footwear, inserts and more for PF:

http://beatplantarfasciitis.com/ultimate-guide-to-the-best-shoes-for-plantar-fasciitis/