The term ‘Plantar Fascia’ refers to the health of the foot. It is actually a thin ligament that links the heel to the front of the foot.
More than 50% of Americans suffer from foot pain and it is usually linked to damage to the plantar fascia, also known as plantar fasciitis.
This condition is usually caused by weight gain or repetitive motion, and it is most common in pregnant women, athletes, and people who work standing on their feet for prolonged periods of time, since the weight and the pressure lead to pain and inflammation.
But, you shouldn’t worry. This condition can be both prevented and treated.
You can treat it effectively with the help of some stretching exercises, because these exercises relax the tight muscles which make this problem worse. Some of the most efficient exercises are:
Calf Stretches
Stretching of the calf can alleviate pain in the heels. You just need to extend the leg in a lunge-like movement and remain in this position for thirty seconds. Repeat this three times with both legs.
Seated Exercises
This type of exercises is really efficient when it comes to relieving these issues and symptoms. The Healthline says that the best ones are the following ones:
- Cross one of your legs over the other one. Next, pull upward on the big toe and hold for about fifteen seconds, then release. Repeat this three times, and then repeat everything with the other foot.
- For this you will need a folded towel which will serve as an exercise strap. Put the towel under your foot arch and pull upward in order to stretch the foot in front of your body, remaining in this position for about fifteen to thirty seconds. Repeat the exercise three times.
- Use water bottle or some similar object for this exercise. Roll your foot over this object for nearly a minute, and then repeat with the other foot.
You can do these stretching exercises as a prevention of plantar fasciitis as well. Furthermore, there are other ways for prevention of this condition, such as:
Warm up
Every time you are about to do some physical work or some exercise, warm up your body first. This will prevent injuries caused by some sudden movements.
Exercise regularly
One of the best prevention ways for this condition is regular exercising and maintaining a healthy weight. Furthermore, by stretching your joints and muscles, you reduce the risk of foot ligaments tightening.
Ensure Proper Support
It is extremely important that you wear appropriate shoes if you want to keep your feet in a safe position. The appropriate support of the feet is vital. Do not wear badly constructed or tight shoes, and do not walk barefoot to avoid applying additional pressure on your feet and heels.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
You will most efficiently avoid the unnecessary pressure on the feet and the whole body by controlling your body weight.
Rest
Make sure that you always have the time to rest the feet between the daily activities, since they are subjected to the burden of your own body’s weight, and your feet and heels should not be exposed to continuous repetitive movement.
Thus, you should try and maintain the health of your feet, as this is really important. The best way for protecting your feet is to prevent feet problems. In addition, in case you suspect that you have this condition, go and visit your doctor right away, so that you treat it fast and efficiently. Also, you will need to introduce the required changes in your lifestyle that include changes in your diet and exercising.
Source: homehealthyrecipes.com