Plantar fasciitis (PF) involves pain and inflammation of a thick band of tissue, called the plantar fascia, which runs vertically across the bottom of your foot connecting your heel bone to your toes.
Plantar = sole of the foot. Fasciitis = inflammation (itis) of the fascia. PF can affect one or both feet and is a common cause of heel pain or pain in the arch that can range from mild to debilitating. Pain is often worse in the morning and after sitting for a length of time. Not every case of PF finds relief from medical procedures such as cortisone shots and surgery. Help is available as a complement or alternative. Reflexology is a form of bodywork applied to the feet that is non-invasive and is a natural and whole-body approach to wellness.
PF affects the entire body and commonly requires attention to areas other than the foot that may be contributing to the symptoms. Once your symptoms subside, we help you to maintain healthy feet with preventative measures and self-care education.
Why Plantar Fasciitis Returns
- Band-aid treatments that are quick-fixes and don’t address the cause
- Lack of maintenance after PF improves
- Minimal self-care (exercise, stretching, ice therapy, etc.)
- Lifestyle habits that cause, aggravate or worsen PF
- Use of medications to mask pain and give a false sense of resolve
Reflexology Benefits
- Improves circulation for legs and feet
- Restores healthy fascia in the feet
- Stimulates endorphins for pain relief
- Reduces soft-tissue inflammation
- Improves foot flexibility and function
- Improves structure and range of motion
- Provides overall balance and release of tension for the entire body
Consistent Care is Key
Plantar fasciitis does not develop overnight and will not diminish or disappear without daily care. Lifestyle patterns and causes must be addressed to prevent recurrence. Often the best treatment is the hardest.
REST the feet from use and abuse which means get off your feet for prolonged periods. This can assist in reducing inflammation as you proceed with a program of reflexology and soft-tissue therapy.
Other tips to speed healing include ice therapy to the injured area, foot-soaks in Dead Sea mineral salts, application of essential oils or BioFreeze for inflammation and pain. Also check for side effects from medications.
Avoid habits which can exacerbate PF such as going barefoot, crossing the ankles and bending toes back when seated.