You’ve just woken up, thrown the covers off, had a good stretch, swung your feet on the ground and are about to embark on a new day! As the weight of your body shifts to your feet, you quickly realize something is wrong. PAIN! If this happens to you, and your first step of the day is the most painful, you are likely suffering from plantar fasciitis.
On the bottom surface of the foot (the plantar), there is a thick fibrous band of connective tissue. Plantar Fasciitis is the name given to the breakdown and often inflammation of this connective tissue. People who have been walking on hard surfaces for extended periods of time or who are carrying increased weight are most at risk. When the tissue becomes exhausted in this part of the foot, the likelihood of developing this condition increases.
In many cases, plantar fasciitis can also lead to the development of heel spurs … just when you thought your feet couldn’t hurt more! The heel connection point can start forming a bony growth, making foot flexibility and basic walking an even more painful prospect.
In my practice of reflexology and foot massage, I have seen many clients who have suffered from this condition. One in ten people in their lifetime will have some degree of plantar fasciitis. What can you do? Foot massage and reflexology can help. It will assist to increase circulation through the foot. This replaces damaged tissue faster. Increased blood flow not only moves inflamed and damaged tissue out of the plantar area, but replaces damaged cells with new healthy ones at an increased rate.
By taking load-bearing weight off and increasing blood flow, clients are provided with a huge amount of relief. Although individual responses will vary, one recent client remarked, “Before the treatment, my right foot had been hurting for days, even to the point where I had to use a cane. The tendon in my foot felt incredibly inflamed. But after the treatment, I felt almost no pain. Although I still used the cane on the way home to be safe, the next day I didn’t need it at all.”
Please note that if you find you are having more pain at night, you may be suffering from a different condition altogether. In either case, see your doctor for a diagnosis. You may be sent for an x-ray, asked questions about your physical activities and so forth. Often heat or ice will be recommended as well as reducing certain activities. Stretching, utilizing arch supports or cushioned inserts may also be recommended by your doctor.
Nicole Costello, Certified Reflexologist
Centerline Reflexology
(778)433-3119
Email Nicole
See all articles by Nicole Costello