Plantar fasciitis. You know when you have it, it is a pain under the front part of the heel.

Accounting for something like 15% of all conditions requiring treatment on the feet Plantar fasciitis is no stranger to many people.

It afflicts a considerable number of joggers but they are by no means the only ones to suffer. Sedentary folk who are overweight or who normally wear footwear totally unsuitable are also prone this affliction and so too sadly are some of us walkers.

There is a fibrous membrane running the length of the foot between the toes and the heel called the Plantar fascia. Many of the muscles in the sole of the foot are attached to and although it is very tough it is none the less prone to trauma and becomes inflamed through repeated pounding.

The inflammation occurs just in front of the heel just where the arch of the foot begins. Essentially is acts as a kind of shock absorber so if you have fallen arches you should be aware of the potentially damaging effects of not having your arches properly supported because in effect it is like a car having its suspension collapsed and relying solely on its shock absorbers to do all of the work.

It would not be long before the whole car suffered serious trouble.

As with so many other annoying impediments of the body it is worse when rising after prolonged inactivity such as a nights sleep but during the following hours the pain diminishes but with continued activity the burning sensations starts to return as the evening draws on.

On examination of the foot if there is acute tenderness when pressure is applied to the point of the pain this is normally associated and confirmation of Plantar fasciitis.

Physio therapies with alternating heat and ice will offer some relief as will anti-inflammatory tablets. It is also possible that gently massage of the affective might help but that will depend on the severity of pain being experienced. It is highly recommended that a check be made on the arches of the foot to see if they are fallen and if they are then orthotics are recommended. (One indication of possible fallen arches is the knee collapsing inwards the other knee).

Prevention - Always wear good supportive footwear and not flat flip-flops.

Try to avoid repetitive impact that will aggravate the base of the foot. Walk with more of a rolling action of the foot. i.e. strike the ground with the heel and roll forward onto the toes ready for a lift off.

At the slightest indication the you have the onset of Plantar fasciitis reduce the amount you walk to give the foot time to recover and repair.

If your foot wear is un-supportive try inserts that can be purchased from a pharmacist / chemist or ideally consult a podiatrist for expert advice and guidance.

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