The size and shape of everyone’s feet are different, yet some share similarities. Generally, everyone has some sort of developed arch in their feet or is flatfooted. However, flatfooted people may suffer from more pain than those with a normal or even a high arch.
Anatomy of a Flat Foot:
The plantar fascia connects the heel (2) to the head of the metatarsals (end of bone 6).
Image Source: Peter Dazeley
What’s Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis (pronounced as PLAN-tur fas-e-I-tis) is a condition in individuals who experience sharp, stabbing pain near the heel of the bottom of their feet. More specifically, irritation of the tissue band that links the heel bone to the bases of the toes on the bottom of the feet plays a significant role in plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis is typically seen in those with flat or high-arched feet, long-distance runners, those who are overweight, or those who spend more hours standing or walking. Additionally, the type of shoes you wear can accelerate the onset of plantar fasciitis.
Crocs and Plantar Fasciitis
Crocs footwear is a new culprit to the overall comfort of our feet. In recent years, people have worn Crocs because they are easy to slip on and off, lightweight, and versatile in different environments. While Crocs may feel comfortable, they may not be the best shoes structurally because they lack the support a foot’s arch and heel need, putting additional strain on the plantar fascia. Although Crocs are decent, they are not the best choice for everyone. Crocs have some downsides that podiatrists agree on, so limiting keeping the time wearing Crocs when out and about or finding alternative shoes that support your entire foot is important.
Treatment for Plantar Fasciitis
Having plantar fasciitis can lead to more issues, such as foot, leg, or back pain and discomfort if left untreated. There are many options to treat plantar fasciitis without surgery. These include resting or icing your feet, stretching your feet, taking medications like Ibuprofen or Naproxen, limiting the time of wearing shoes without proper support, and using products such as arch supports or walking boots that can decrease the pain with weight bearing. A good place to start is seeing a podiatrist or an orthopedic surgeon who specializes in the foot and ankle; they can refer you to appropriate physical therapy and discuss other treatment options, such as corticosteroid injections and extracorporeal shock wave therapy. If these non-operative treatments fail, they can guide you through discussing surgical options such as minimally invasive tissue repair using ultrasound or an endoscopic/open plantar fascia release.
Featured Image: © lenscap50 / Adobe Stock
