Running and Plantar Fasciitis

By: Michele Colon Click author's name for more of his/her articles

Why do so many of us runners suffer from heel pain on a regular basis? The most common cause of heel pain in runners is heel spur syndrome (plantar fasciitis), or the too much, too soon, too fast syndrome.

Do you have arch or heel pain? Do you feel a sharp stabbing pain in your heel with the first step you take in the morning? Is it getting worse every day, especially the morning after a run? It may be plantar fasciitis or heel spur syndrome.

It may not even hurt while you are running, but it hurts enough in the morning and at the end of the day to cause concern. What happens with this inflammatory condition is that it warms up quickly in the morning, but when you sit down for a while, it tightens up again. Then when you get back up and take that first step, the pain starts all over again.

Does this sound familiar? It is important to have your foot pain evaluated by a podiatrist to make the correct diagnosis. Other conditions can have symptoms very similar to those of plantar fasciitis, such as a stress fracture, tarsal tunnel syndrome, a bone tumor, and sciatica. X-rays as well as a complete podiatric exam, including gait analysis and biomechanical measurements, will rule out most other diagnoses and confirm your diagnosis.

What should you do now? Start simple. First, look at your running shoes. Are they worn out? Are they the right kind for your foot type? Are you trying to run in cross-trainers or walking shoes? If you're not sure, consult a foot specialist. Even if your shoes seem to fit well, you may still need help. A podiatrist can make custom made orthotics to place in your running shoes to give you that extra support that some foot types need to be pain-free. Next, apply ice or Biofreeze to the area for about fifteen minutes at least twice a day to decrease inflammation. Also, do not forget to do your stretching before every run. Stretch the arch of your foot and the Achilles tendon. Finally, decrease your running a little while you are healing from this condition. You can do any of the following--slow down, run shorter distances, take walk breaks, and run only on even surfaces.

If you feel any sharp pains or tearing during running, stop immediately. It could be a plantar fascial tear which will really affect your running and may cause you to stop running altogether for at least two months. If this doesn't help, it's definitely time to see your podiatrist!

Advanced podiatric treatments for plantar fasciitis combined with rest, night splints, anti-inflammatories, injections, physical therapy, and orthotics may be necessary to treat your heel pain effectively. Conservative treatment is usually all that is needed, with about 85% of the patients reporting relief of symptoms. Surgery is rarely indicated. The longer you wait to seek professional help, the more likely you will need invasive treatment or even surgery to control your heel pain.

Don't let heel pain slow you down! It is treatable, and you will be able to continue to run. The key is early effective treatment.

Copyright (c) 2009 Michele Colon

Article Source: ABC Article Directory

About The Author: This article was written by Dr. Michele Colon, DPM, MS, a graduate of UC Berkeley and Barry University School of Podiatric Medicine. Dr. Colon is located in El Monte, CA, and can be found at www.footdoc.moogo.com You can also find Dr. Colon's online store at www.ourdoctorstore.com/Colon Dr. Colon has written a book titled "Your Feet are NOT Supposed to Hurt!" which can be found at www.footdoc.moogo.com/6