How to treat heel fasciitis. Home treatments. Preventive measures in the fight against plantar fasciitis

In this article we will talk about the treatment of plantar (plantar) fasciitis of the heel at home, about all the methods and features of this process.

Plantar fasciitis is a foot disease that occurs as a result of inflammation of the plantar fascia, which envelops the muscles of the arch of the foot. The result of the body's protective-adaptive reaction is injury to fibrous tissue due to stretching, heavy and regular load.

The role of the fascia is to maintain the foot in the correct position, and as soon as it begins to hurt, a person cannot move normally or engage in physical activity. If the problem has just begun, then you can figure out how to treat it. plantar fasciitis at home. In case of increased and already intolerable pain, they resort to drug therapy. Let's look at these issues in more detail.

Flat feet are another cause of pain. It may be congenital, due to insufficient connective tissue during the formation of the foot, and acquired as a result of wearing low-quality shoes.

Arthritis, arthrosis and vascular disease in the legs also affect the normal nutrition of fibrous tissue, limiting the flow essential microelements for metabolism.

People with overweight you need to think about resetting it. Only by eliminating the original cause of fasciitis can you get rid of it forever.

Symptoms of heel spurs are important signs that help in determining the overall picture of the disease and in the fight against it.

Drug treatment for plantar fasciitis

Heel fasciitis or otherwise plantar, plantar fasciitis V advanced stage subject only drug treatment. This includes therapy with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in tablets and ointments: Motrin, Indomethacin, Aleve, Diclofenac and its analogues, Advil. They contain active ingredients ibuprofen and aspirin. The course of treatment is long but effective.

Injection procedures with the introduction of corticosteroids are also practiced: hydrocortisone or betamethasone. Such hormonal medications with a powerful anti-inflammatory effect can damage the fascia and result in acquired flat feet and chronic pain.

Plantar fasciitis can be treated homeopathic remedies when there are still no bone growths. In addition to the anti-inflammatory effect, preparations based on plant extracts improve the elasticity of the ligaments, which leads to a reduction in pain during mechanical impact on the foot.

Physiotherapeutic methods

Plantar fasciitis is effectively treated using devices that affect the diseased area only mechanically - ultrasound (phonophoresis), current (iontophoresis), laser, magnetic field; shock wave therapy improves with the use of corticosteroids: betamethasone, hydrocortisone and disprospan.

Physiotherapeutic methods are successfully used in complex and conservative treatment of foot diseases.

Traditional medicine

In the initial stages of the disease, you can use proven methods traditional medicine: compresses, ointments and applications.

Compresses

Plantar fasciitis, which is supposed to be treated at home, responds well to the correct application of compresses:

each overlay should be wider than the previous one;
It is not recommended to use excessive force when fixing the layers on the ankle;
Allow a lot of time for the action (make a compress at night).

So, what folk remedies are used for compresses:

medicinal herbs in the form of tinctures in alcoholic liquid;
apple cider vinegar diluted with water 1:1;
cabbage (burdock) leaf smeared with honey (chalk);
raw potatoes or garlic, grated on a coarse grater;
raw black radish and horseradish root, grated and mixed in a 1:1 ratio.

The given recipes are medicinal components of compressors, which must be applied according to the following rules:

prepared natural ingredient;
cling film to create a thermal effect;
warm material (bike, woolen scarf);
bandage for fixation.

Baths

Treatment of fasciitis at home is practiced by taking a variety of baths:

Saline. The solution is prepared as follows: in 1 liter hot water table 3 is set up. spoons of salt. Place the sore heel in the bath and steam for at least half an hour. Wipe your foot dry and wrap it in a warming cloth, go to bed;
Iodine-soda. Pour 1 teaspoon of soda into a bowl with 1 liter of warm water and add 10 drops of iodine. Steam for 10 minutes, then wipe the foot dry and treat the sore spot with iodine mesh;
Vodka based. How to treat plantar fasciitis at home by taking a bath with a solution of vodka, table vinegar and turpentine? You need to mix all the ingredients in a 1:1 ratio, heat, place your foot and hold until the composition cools completely. For greater efficiency, it is recommended to carry out the procedure 2 times.
Icy. Immerse the heel (without toes) in cold water with ice for 10 minutes;
From walnut peels. Plantar fasciitis in the initial stage or in complex therapy is well treated with a bath, the solution for which must be prepared as follows: boil the chopped green peel of walnuts for 10 minutes. Before going to bed, steam your foot in the bath for 15 minutes;
Based on antispasmodic and antimicrobial drug. The bath consists of 1 liter of water, 2 tbsp. spoons of apple cider vinegar, 1 table. spoons of honey and 2 tablets of furatsilin and analgin. Bring the mixture until smooth and place the foot for 20 minutes. After the procedure, treat heel fasciitis thermal effects– wrap in clay for 10–20 minutes.

Applications

Plantar fasciitis, which can be treated at home (photo below), can be treated with application overlays. This procedure helps to use all the forces of nature from natural ingredients, nourishing tissues with microelements important for it.

An effective application is considered to be a mixture of mountain wax and paraffin. They are heated to 40 °C, mixed, applied to the sore spot, wrapped in a warm cloth and put a plastic bag on the leg. Leave the application for half an hour.

Unfortunately, it is not possible to cure complex shaped plantar fasciitis with overlays, but using them in complex therapy will be useful.

Auxiliary procedures

Plantar fasciitis: treatment at home and in hospital, may be subjected to additional procedures, which are aimed at restoring fibrous tissue. These include:

patches with medicinal composition;
ointments with a warming and analgesic effect;
homeopathic lotions.

Plantar fasciitis, which can be treated at home, should not be taken into severe form, otherwise all methods will be powerless, which will lead to surgical intervention.

Plantar fasciitis (inflammation of the plantar fascia) is often diagnosed in women 40 years of age and older. Doctors call the main causes of the disease:

Wearing uncomfortable shoes for a long time.
Availability overweight bodies.
Diabetes mellitus, gout and other diseases.
Flat feet, circulatory and metabolic disorders in the lower extremities.
Previously suffered foot injuries (this is especially typical for people involved in professional sports).

It can be difficult to recognize and begin treatment in a timely manner, because the disease is early stages may manifest itself as swelling and fatigue of the legs. After some time, patients may notice an increase in pain in the heel area, which will persist even at rest. That is why if you are in at least one of the risk groups, and you begin to notice unpleasant sensations in your feet, you should contact a specialist as soon as possible.

Treating plantar fasciitis at home

Despite the warnings of doctors, many patients who have been diagnosed with fasciitis prefer to be treated at home, using folk recipes. Judging by the reviews, such remedies as medical bile, salt, iodine, honey, propolis, etc. help relieve pain, swelling of soft tissues, restore blood circulation and metabolism. Medicines made on the basis of these components must be taken in courses, taking into account the availability contraindications. In some patients who comprehensively use both folk and traditional methods treatment, relief came fairly quickly, and most of the unpleasant symptoms went away. That is why we should list common folk methods for eliminating plantar fasciitis.

Medical bile against inflammation

Medical bile, which was used in ancient times as a treatment for joint diseases, helps relieve unpleasant symptoms with fasciitis. You can find this medicine in any pharmacy, and you do not need a prescription from a doctor to purchase it. The following bile-based recipes will eliminate heel pain, reduce swelling of soft tissues, and normalize metabolism:

Mix bile and vodka in a 1:1 ratio. Steam your sore feet in hot water, and then apply a bandage soaked in the medicinal composition to the affected areas. Place parchment or wax paper on top, apply an elastic bandage and put on a wool sock. It is more advisable to do such warming compresses at night for 20–25 days (usually after this time noticeable relief occurs).
A compress of vodka, shampoo and bile will not only relieve pain, but also make the skin soft and elastic. To prepare this remedy, you will need 20 grams of vodka (or alcohol) and shampoo, as well as 50 grams of medical bile. The composition is also applied to gauze and applied to sore spots.
There are other folk recipes using bile for plantar fasciitis, however, the above can be called not only effective, but also easy to make.

Egg and vinegar

An ointment made from vinegar, eggs and honey was previously famous for its anti-inflammatory and restorative properties. To prepare such a remedy for plantar fasciitis, you need to take egg and place it in a container with vinegar for several days (the vinegar can be anything - apple, rice, etc.). During this time, the shell will dissolve, and the egg-vinegar essence will remain in the cup. The resulting ingredient must be poured into large capacity, add 30–50 grams of natural butter and mix thoroughly. The finished medicine should be applied to a piece of bandage or gauze and applied to the heel spur overnight, providing the sore foot with rest and warmth.

Aspirin for plantar fasciitis

The familiar aspirin has an anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect on plantar fasciitis, eliminating most of the unpleasant symptoms. At course treatment folk remedies based on aspirin can not only get rid of acute pain in the heel area, but also improve blood circulation and metabolism in disease-affected tissues.

The easiest way is to prepare a solution of aspirin and vodka by mixing the components in a ratio of 10 tablets per 250 ml of liquid. As soon as the product has infused (1–1.5 days), it must be applied to a piece of gauze and applied to the sore heel overnight. To avoid rapid drying of the material, polyethylene is placed on top, fixing it elastic bandage and putting on a wool sock. Relief occurs in approximately 7–14 days. If the solution dries out and corrodes the skin, it should be treated with a rich cream or natural butter in the morning.

Treatment of plantar fasciitis with iodine

Folk remedies based on iodine-alcohol solution are in great demand among patients who have been diagnosed with plantar fasciitis. Their main difference is ease of preparation, as well as impressive efficiency. During the course of treatment, many patients stopped complaining of acute pain in the heel, noticed the appearance of ease when walking, a decrease in swelling and a burning sensation.

Iodine baths

This method of treatment will not require special time and material costs, because to prepare the medicine you need to take 2–5 tbsp. l. iodine solution and dilute them in 3 liters of hot water. Baths should be taken daily for 20 minutes. After completing the procedure, wipe the feet dry and apply to the heel. iodine grid and put on woolen socks. In addition, you can simply immerse your heels in a concentrated iodine solution for 5–10 minutes. With this treatment, the active component penetrates into the skin, stopping the process of inflammation of the soft tissues.

Sea salt for heel spurs

Marine and salt has also proven itself well in the treatment of plantar fasciitis. This substance has an anti-inflammatory and warming effect, allows you to normalize metabolism and blood circulation in soft tissues.

Compresses with sea salt, iodine and honey

To prepare this remedy, you will need 50 ml of iodine-alcohol solution, a tablespoon of honey and a teaspoon of salt. All components must be thoroughly mixed, then applied to a piece of gauze or cotton swab, apply to the sore spot and secure with an elastic bandage. It is more advisable to do this procedure at night, providing the foot with warmth and peace.

Salt massage

A daily massage with salt heated in a frying pan will help relieve pain from fasciitis. During a course of treatment, in some cases, complete elimination of the disease was observed.

Salt baths

It is very simple to prepare a salt bath that will eliminate the pain and burning sensation of a heel spur. To do this, you need to dissolve a pack of tableware or sea salt, wait until the water has cooled slightly and immerse your sore heels in it. The procedure continues until the water cools to room temperature. The course of treatment is 10–14 days.

Folk remedies based on burdock

Fresh burdock leaves can also stop the inflammatory process with plantar fasciitis, improve blood circulation, and help remove toxins and waste from soft tissues. For the plant to begin to provide medicinal properties For feet affected by disease, you just need to apply this natural remedy to the sore heel, secure it with an elastic bandage and put on a wool sock. As soon as the burdock leaf dries, you should take a fresh one and repeat the procedure.

Crushed burdock leaf with the addition of a tablespoon of castor oil can relieve the unpleasant symptoms of fasciitis, as well as soften cracked and irritated skin in the heel spur area. In most cases, improvement becomes noticeable within 7-14 days from the start of treatment.

Honey and propolis in the fight against plantar fasciitis

Bee products (honey and propolis) are also used as folk ways relief from plantar fasciitis. From these components you can make decoctions, compresses, ointments. For example, you can do natural ointment from honey and wheat flour, mixing the ingredients in a 1:1 ratio. The resulting mass should be thoroughly kneaded, shaped into a flat cake and applied to the heel spur. During a course of treatment active ingredients contained in honey normalizes metabolic processes, relieve pain, reduce swelling of inflamed tissues.

A similar effect can be achieved by preparing propolis-vaseline ointment. To do this, you need to combine the components in a 1:2 ratio, respectively, and mix them thoroughly. You can add to the finished mass a small amount of butter. Propolis medicine for fasciitis is applied to sore feet every day until complete cure(during the procedure you need to provide warmth and rest to your feet).

In conclusion, it is worth saying that folk remedies for plantar fasciitis cannot be used as the main method of treatment. To completely eliminate the disease, you need to use traditional methods - massage, physiotherapy, plasters, medications. It is also necessary to provide relief for sore feet, wear comfortable orthopedic shoes, and maintain a sleep-wake schedule. Only in this case can a noticeable improvement in the condition be achieved and the development of the disease be stopped.

Plantar fasciitis is a disease that is caused by inflammatory and degenerative changes in the tissues of the plantar fascia and is accompanied by heel pain during exercise.

Plantar fascia (plantar aponeurosis) is a dense connective tissue that attaches to calcaneus and phalanges of the fingers. Its main function is to form and support the longitudinal arch of the foot. If a person stands, half of his weight puts pressure on the plantar aponeurosis. High load provokes micro-tears in the area that is attached to the heel tubercle.

In many cases, while in vertical position(during sleep) injuries regress on their own. But under the influence unfavorable factors fascial ruptures recur. As a result, plantar fasciitis develops, the cause of which is constant microtraumatization of the aponeurosis, leading to aseptic tissue inflammation and pain.

Plantar fasciitis of the heel most often affects women over 40 years of age. The following unfavorable factors increase the likelihood of developing the disease:

overweight;
sports activities that involve prolonged stress on the heel or Achilles tendon;
flat feet or too high arches;
turning the foot inward while walking;
wearing uncomfortable shoes;
diseases of the musculoskeletal system;
injuries;
gout.

Chronic plantar fasciitis over time can lead to the formation of a heel spur, a bone growth (osteophyte) that occurs as a result of the deposition of calcium salts.

Symptoms

The main symptom of plantar fasciitis is pain in the heel area. Unpleasant sensations arise or intensify with exertion. In the morning they are most pronounced, then gradually subside. This is due to the rupture of the fascia that has grown together during night sleep. In addition, the pain intensifies after a long period of sitting, when a person takes his first steps.

The formation of a heel spur can increase the intensity of the symptoms of plantar fasciitis of the foot as the bony growths put pressure on the surrounding tissue. In many cases, the osteophyte does not manifest itself at all.

Diagnostics

Plantar fasciitis is diagnosed based on an analysis of complaints and examination. In addition, radiography is prescribed, which allows you to detect a heel spur.

During the examination, plantar fasciitis is differentiated from diseases such as:

tarsal tunnel syndrome;
rheumatoid arthritis;
Reiter's syndrome and so on.

Treatment for plantar fasciitis is determined by the severity of its symptoms. In mild cases, the main directions of therapy are to provide unloading plantar aponeurosis and elimination of soft tissue inflammation.

Unloading the plantar fascia is achieved by reducing physical activity and periodically resting while walking. The main methods of therapy are gymnastics, taping and the use of special devices for the foot.

The purpose of exercises for fasciitis is to stretch, strengthen and increase the elasticity of the aponeurosis. They must be done every morning after warming up. Regular exercise helps lengthen the plantar fascia. As a result, pain is reduced and future injuries are prevented.

After physical therapy, the foot is taped - the application of an elastic band (tape) or patch to support the longitudinal arch and fix the aponeurosis. When applying the tape, it is necessary to increase its tension when it bends around the leg from below.

To increase the effectiveness of treatment of plantar fasciitis at home, braces or orthoses are used - devices that fix the foot at a right angle. They are worn all night and do not allow the aponeurosis to shorten. IN daytime Patients with fasciitis are advised to wear orthopedic shoes or insoles with arch support and a depression in the center of the heel.

To relieve tissue inflammation and reduce pain, the following are practiced:

massage;
applying ice;
rubbing with warming and anti-inflammatory drugs;
mud applications;
warm foot baths;
analgesics – ibuprofen, acetylsalicylic acid, naproxen.

How to treat plantar fasciitis in severe cases? For severe discomfort and significant bone growths, the following methods are used:

injection of glucocorticoids into the foot tissue in combination with anesthetics;
shock wave therapy to destroy heel spurs;
laser or ultrasound effect on inflamed tissue.

If ineffective conservative treatment For plantar fasciitis, an operation is performed during which the osteophyte and altered parts of the fascia are removed.

Plantar fasciitis has a favorable prognosis. In advanced cases, the course of the disease may worsen due to a fracture of the heel spur.

Prevention

Basic measures to prevent plantar fasciitis:

wearing orthopedic shoes;
adequate physical activity;
maintaining normal weight;
treatment of pathologies of the musculoskeletal system.

If plantar fasciitis occurs, treatment at home should begin immediately. The sooner you take the necessary measures, the greater the chances of quickly getting rid of the problem and achieving improved well-being. Therapy of the disease is aimed at relieving pain and reducing the inflammatory process, fast healing micro-tears and cracks, increasing flexibility and strength of the foot.

Priority actions

Whenever initial signs Diseases should pay attention to lifestyle and physical activity. If possible, they should be adjusted so as to relieve unpleasant symptoms and prevent complications from occurring in the future.

If you have plantar fasciitis, you need to get enough physical activity. If you wear thin-soled shoes every day, you should avoid walking on asphalt or concrete. It is forbidden to run, as this promotes activation of the inflammatory process. During an exacerbation of the disease, it is necessary to stop playing sports or limit exercises that provoke pain.

Ice has a good analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect. It can be applied to the heel area at the end of the working day. This will allow you to quickly and effectively relieve the condition.

Medications can help relieve very severe pain. NSAID groups. They are characterized by a complex effect and have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and decongestant effects. For this purpose, you can use medications based on Diclofenac or Ibuprofen.

However, drugs cannot be used uncontrolled. They have big amount side effects, in particular, negatively affect the mucous membrane gastrointestinal tract and can provoke the development of ulcers and bleeding.

An important role in successfully getting rid of discomfort choosing the right shoes plays a role. It should successfully absorb the shock of walking and support the arch of the foot. During the period of exacerbation of the disease, it is necessary to stop using slippers, high-heeled shoes or sandals. You should give preference to a pair with a soft and thick sole. The ideal option is sneakers.

Proximal fasciitis requires improved footwear. Special inserts in the heel area or orthopedic insoles will help solve this problem. This way you can reduce the load on the area of inflammation.

Walking barefoot can increase pain, so you need to put on shoes as soon as possible after getting out of bed. It is advisable to do calf stretching exercises in the morning. It won’t take much time, only 3-4 minutes, but it will help to effectively strengthen the ligaments and muscles, which will have a positive effect on the course of the disease.

Excess weight has negative impact on the human ligamentous apparatus, exposing it to increased loads. Therefore, one of the first recommendations in the treatment of plantar fasciitis is weight loss. It is not necessary to lose half the weight; even a slight decrease in indicators will have a positive effect on the patient’s well-being.

When treating a disease at home, you should remember some limitations. For example, a ban on long-term thermal procedures. IN in this case Cold will help reduce pain and relieve inflammation, and elevated temperature will negatively affect the patient's condition. It is advisable to observe this rule even during water procedures and in mandatory complete hygiene measures with a cold shower.

The use of baths in the treatment of disease

How to treat plantar fasciitis with folk remedies? Alternative medicine involves an integrated approach. Therefore, one of the important conditions for successful therapy is the use of baths. Thanks to water procedures, the skin of the affected leg will steam well and soften. To enhance positive result It is necessary to add medicinal components to the liquid.

An additional advantage of this treatment method is that subsequent application of a compress will provide a more pronounced therapeutic effect.

The simplest recipe for preparing a bath is to add soda and salt. For 1 liter of hot water you will need 1 tbsp. l. each means. If desired, you can add a few drops of iodine, which has an antiseptic effect. The duration of water procedures is about 15-20 minutes. It is not recommended to use liquid that is too hot, as it can not only cause a burn, but also worsen the patient’s well-being.

Has a good effect healing composition, which includes turpentine, vinegar and vodka. All components must be mixed in equal proportions and heated slightly in a water bath. The procedure achieves an analgesic, anti-inflammatory and relaxing effect.

Treatment with folk remedies includes the use of an “ice bath.” Very suitable for this cold water. The addition of crushed ice. The procedure should be done carefully, only the heel should be immersed in the water, and the total duration should not exceed 5–10 minutes. IN otherwise exists high risk frostbite of the feet.

The use of compresses in the treatment of plantar fasciitis

Folk remedies in the treatment of the disease necessarily include medications for local application. good therapeutic effect has the use of compresses. Thanks to correct application, applications are created optimal conditions for deep penetration of the drug into the epidermis. For compresses you can use the following recipes:

Horseradish and laundry soap. Grind both components in equal proportions, mix well and place on the area of inflammation. Attach to the leg, cover with a plastic bag or wax paper and wrap. It is advisable to do this procedure at night so that the medicine acts on the pathological focus for as long as possible. The product has an antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect. Apply the application daily before bed until you feel better.
Sunflower tincture. U flowering plant cut off the head and remove the white porous pulp. Grind the mixture, put it in a glass container and fill it with vodka. The liquid should cover the sunflower by 0.5–1 cm. Leave the product in a dark place for 10–14 days. Before use, strain the tincture and add sunflower, olive, flaxseed or any other vegetable oil in a 1:1 ratio. Use the product for rubbing and applying compresses.
Infusion of cinquefoil. To prepare it, you need to grind the root of the plant. 2 tbsp. l. pour 50 ml of water and leave for 2 hours. After this time, strain the product and mash the remaining pulp to a puree-like consistency. Place the mixture on the heel and apply a compress. The duration of use of the medicine is at least 10–12 hours. Therefore, the procedure should be done before bedtime so that the patient does not have to walk with the application.
Beets and apple cider vinegar. To apply a compress, you need to grate the vegetable and mix with apple cider vinegar in equal proportions. The product has a pronounced softening, anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect. Its only drawback is that it can paint the sole red, which is only relevant in the hot season.
Elderberry tincture. It has pronounced anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. To prepare it, you need to pour the berries medical alcohol and leave for 5-7 days. It is advisable to do this in a glass container. Ready product use for rubbing and applying compresses - moisten a piece of cotton cloth or gauze in liquid, apply to the sore spot and wrap it on top.

Using ointments and rubs

Treatment for plantar fasciitis with folk remedies involves using medications to rub into the inflamed area several times a day.

The easiest way to prepare an ointment is to grind fresh unsalted lard in a meat grinder and use it as a rub. To enhance the anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect of fat, it should be attached to the heel area and left overnight. To avoid unnecessary worries, you don’t have to twist the lard and add a whole slice. It will also have a positive effect.

When treating fasciitis with folk remedies, you should definitely use effective recipe based on propolis. To prepare the ointment, mix 25 g of herb and 200 g of butter, melt the mixture in a water bath and rub on the inflamed heel. The product can be left overnight, and to avoid soiling the bed linen, put a sock on top.

Golden mustache has a powerful anti-inflammatory effect. Ointments, infusions, rubs and other forms based on it are used in the treatment of many diseases. The stem and leaves of the plant are used for medicine. To strengthen healing effect, the cut parts should be placed in the freezer for several hours. After this, pass through a meat grinder and add animal fat (pork, bear, badger). For 1 part golden mustache you will need 2 parts lard. The product is used as an ointment, but is not used for applying compresses. The medicine should be kept in the refrigerator so that it retains its consistency.

Fasciitis therapy with folk remedies will help cope with inflammatory process without use pharmacological drugs. However, you should be patient, because although this treatment is absolutely safe, it does not act as quickly as medications.

Heel or foot pain is a common symptom with which hundreds of thousands of people present to the doctor every year. medical institutions to identify the causes and eliminate pain. It would seem that modern medicine and technical equipment medical institutions should no longer leave incurable diseases, but such diseases still exist. Such diseases include plantar fasciitis, which should be treated immediately. You can also treat at home.

Plantar fasciitis is called a heel spur, which is incorrect medical point vision. A heel spur is a bony growth that forms in the area of the heel bone and fascia of the foot. The bone growth does not cause pain or discomfort; its presence in clinical course the disease does not affect treatment methods. Often heel spur is found in completely healthy individuals who have never had complaints about the health of their feet or heel spurs.

Let's talk about the anatomical structure and functions of the fascia. Plantar fascia is a connective tissue formation covering the bone formations of the foot, starting from metatarsal bones fourth and fifth toes, attached to the heel bone. The thickness and structure of the fascia is not the same throughout, and the load on the foot in different parts is different. A large load is applied to the midfoot, so the thickness of the fascia in this section is maximum. Towards the periphery the fascia becomes thinner.

The main functions of the fascia include:

protective – the fascia tightly covers bone structures, forming a case that protects bones and protects them from mechanical, chemical and biological irritants;
the so-called fascia connects all the bone formations of the feet, forming a single functional system;
nutritional function – connective tissue formation contains nervous and vascular components, ensuring the supply nutrients in this area, also provides sensitivity to the feet;
Availability lymphatic capillaries ensures the outflow of metabolic and decay products from the area of the feet, preventing them from accumulating, causing various kinds of pathological processes.

Etiology of the disease

The feet withstand enormous loads, which causes spurs to form on the heels. On average, the fascia of the feet experiences a force of 50-100 kg. Over time, loads lead to structural inferiority and the formation of pathology. Reasons that can cause pathology:

Pathogenesis

The pathogenesis of the disease is quite clear. When exposed to a causative factor, fascial overstrain occurs. As a result increased load on the fascia, it becomes thinner and stretches. In this state, it still performs its function. Fascia, as a connective tissue structure, is easily stretched, so the disease does not develop immediately. When the fascia stretches to its maximum extent, it is susceptible to all irritants. Under the pressure of a force that the fascia could previously easily withstand, ruptures and microcracks occur.

Such microcracks lead to activation immune system, seeking to compensate for the resulting pathology and secreting into the epicenter great amount cells and biologically active substances. These cells are active chemical substances lead to the development of aseptic inflammation. Aseptic inflammation means a process of inflammatory changes that occur without the participation of pathogenic microorganisms.

As a result of the activity of inflammatory mediators, vascular permeability in this area increases, from vessels to the area of increased concentration of active chemical compounds plasma comes out. This is how edema forms, leading to greater stretching of the fascia and irritation. pain receptors and nerve endings – a feeling of pain is formed.

Clinic of the disease and symptoms

The main symptom that causes trouble for patients is pain. The pain occurs more often in the morning, and can develop during the day, after prolonged physical exertion. This is explained by the course of the pathogenesis of the disease. At night, when the leg is at rest, the productive phase of inflammation is activated, cells in the area of aseptic inflammation begin to secrete substances aimed at healing the resulting microtraumas and restoring integrity. The tissues formed in this way are inferior and fragile. In the morning, when the patient takes his first steps, the ligaments are torn again, causing pain.

Diagnostics

Diagnosis of plantar fasciitis is quite easy. The doctor interviews the patient, finds out the symptoms, identifies the location of the pain and the time of its occurrence. Localization of pain has important, helps determine whether the pain is caused by plantar fasciitis or another cause of the pain.

The doctor assesses the health of everyone musculoskeletal system. To do this, tests are carried out to evaluate the symptoms:

reflexes are checked;
muscle strength;
muscle tone;
sensitivity in the feet;
coordination of movements;
sense of balance.

To completely confirm the diagnosis, instrumental diagnostic methods are used:

X-ray;
computed tomography;
magnetic resonance imaging.

Treatment

Most patients, with properly selected treatment and timely referral to professionals, recover within a few months thanks to conservative therapy.

Conservative treatment involves the use of drugs:

The main group of drugs is glucocorticosteroids. Strong anti-inflammatory drugs aimed at pathogenetic mechanisms formation of the disease are required for use.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in the form of ointments are used locally. These drugs include Nemesid and Ibuprofen derivatives. They relieve pain and relieve inflammation.

Physiotherapeutic treatment methods are widely used for the treatment of plantar fasciitis - electrophoresis, phonophoresis, ultrasound therapy, UHF. The maximum effect of these plantar fasciitis treatment methods is achieved when used in conjunction with medications.

It is effective to use special orthopedic shoes and insoles equipped with pronators and instep supports, ensuring uniform distribution of the load on the surface of the foot.

If the effect of conservative therapy is insignificant, treatment methods are used:

shock wave therapy – shock waves are sent to the heel area different intensity, stimulating the reparative forces of the body, accelerating recovery. Effective for chronic plantar fasciitis;
in case of ineffectiveness medications treatment and subsequent progression of pathology, apply surgical methods treatment. The affected connective tissue of the plantar aponeurosis is excised. These treatment methods are fraught with complications and lead to weakening of the arch of the foot, requiring constant health care, compliance with the daily routine and exercise.

Physiotherapy

At home, it is advisable to perform physical exercises aimed at stretching the plantar fascia and increasing its reserve forces.

Exercise 1

Place your palms on the wall and place your feet directly behind each other. The sore leg is at the back; if pain occurs in both heels, then the legs must be alternated. Without lifting your heels off the floor, squat down, bending your knees until you feel tension in the lower part of the shin of your sore leg. Stay in this position for 15-20 seconds. Perform 10-15 repetitions. The exercise warms up and increases the elasticity and strength of the lower leg muscles, relieving the load on the aponeurosis.

Exercise 2

The exercise is a warm-up exercise with elements aimed at training the plantar fascia.

On the floor, in front of the wall, place several books in a stack 5 cm high. Stand on the books so that your heels hang over the edge. Place your palms on the wall. From this position, lean forward toward the wall to feel the stretch in the lower part of your shin, hold for 15-20 seconds. Complete 15 reps.

Exercise 3

The same manipulations are performed in the same sequence as when performing exercise 2, but bending towards the wall is carried out while standing on one leg.

Exercise 4

Take a tennis ball, rolling pin, or cylindrical object and place it under your feet. Roll the object along the floor like rolling out dough, pressing it with your foot to the surface of the floor. If pain is severe, you can take a bottle of cold water - this will reduce the pain.

Conservative treatment prescribed by a doctor will become effective if you begin to take care of yourself at home. During treatment, it is necessary to reduce walking time and the intensity of physical activity. Don't forget about cold compresses, massages, baths and exercises. Avoid uncomfortable shoes, especially heels.

Plantar fasciitis or heel spur is a disease that involves inflammation of the foot, or rather its plantar fascia (PF), which is a powerful tissue bundle (in medical parlance - aponeurosis).

The PF supports the foot arch, acting as a shock absorber.

The main cause of the disease is a minor injury to the PF.

The risk of illness increases when a person:

stays on your feet for a very long time (due to standing work, for example), walks or runs;
leads a lifestyle that involves a constant sitting position, which is why the foot cannot adapt to stress;
suffered or suffers from flat feet;
has hollow feet;
constantly wears shoes without the use of arch support (for example, flip-flops, sneakers);
suffers overweight, which means it additionally loads the foot;
is an athlete increasing training intensity:
does not follow the exercise technique, which can lead to excessive stretching.

Fasciitis of the sole can progress to chronic form, in this case, conventional treatment methods will not be able to help, surgical intervention will be required.

Symptoms of plantar fasciitis– pain in the heel area (occurring immediately after a person gets out of bed or after spending a long time in a sitting position), which may increase. The most strong pain may occur after long standing or after climbing stairs.

Diagnosis of plantar fasciitis

To begin, the doctor studies the patient's medical history, obtaining information about when the pain began, the area where it is localized, and when it becomes most severe. After this, he collects information about what lifestyle the patient leads, and whether he has anatomical confirmations in the form of thin tendons or flat feet.

Ultimately, ultrasound and radiography, MRI and CT are prescribed to confirm the previously made diagnosis.

Considering all of the above, The risk group includes 40-70 year olds, leading active image life people, most often women. There is also a high risk of getting sick for runners, factory workers, waiters and many other representatives of standing professions.

Treatment Methods for Heel Fasciitis

The treatment period can take a whole year, and the plantar aponeurosis and Achilles tendon will need to be stretched. To do this, the patient will have to constantly perform special exercises. As an addition, a splint is placed on the foot (at night) to ensure its immobility in neutral dorsiflexion.

Such actions will help avoid contraction of the plantar aponeurosis. Mandatory heel cushioning is performed using heel pads. The need to use arch supports designed for the entire water supply of the foot for such tasks is not confirmed by doctors.

Actions to relieve pain in the heels and feet:

resting the legs;
using comfortable shoes;
anesthesia;
Do some exercises to help relieve the symptoms of plantar fasciitis.

Legs need rest as often and as much as possible. It is necessary to avoid excessive stress, do not walk or run unnecessarily, and do not stretch the foot too much. It's better to walk calmly.

Treatment of plantar fasciitis at home - exercises

You can do gymnastics at home, but you should consult your doctor before doing so.

Exercise No. 1

The patient stands against the wall and places his right and left hands on it, while slightly spreading his legs. Bend the knee of your left leg without bending your back. Next, tilt towards the wall. A person should feel his calf muscles (their tension). You need to remain in this position for a few seconds and then relax.

After repeating 10 times, switch to right leg, and do the exercise 10 more times, then use both legs in alternating bends, but now the back should be slightly bent. You need to practice the procedure at least 2 times a day.

Exercise No. 2

The patient stands on the bottom step of a flight of stairs, with his legs slightly apart (heels hanging down). While holding onto the railing, your heels should be lowered without straightening your knees. And again, when carrying out such manipulations, a person should feel the tension in the calf muscles and hold this position for about a minute, then relax. Perform the exercise 2 times a day, repeating 6 times in a row.

Exercise No. 3

A person needs to sit on the floor and stretch his legs forward, his knees should also remain straight. Next, you need to stretch the toes of one of your feet towards your nose and hold on for half a minute. Repeat 3 times, repeating the procedure for the other leg. It is enough to perform the exercise itself once a day.

Exercise No. 4

Now you need to sit on a chair, keeping your knees at an angle of 90 degrees, while both the heels and the feet as a whole should remain on the floor. Hold this for a few seconds and then you can relax. It should be repeated at least 10 times, the number of repetitions per day is 6.

To treat fasciitis of the soles, they also use:

steroid injections;
extracorporeal (shock wave) and/or radiation therapy;
application of special splints;
surgical intervention.

Cortisone injections are given only when pain does not disappear after using painkillers. medicines ("Paracetamol", "Ibuprofen", which also perform an anti-inflammatory function) or a cold compress. However, this does not solve the problem itself, it only eliminates unpleasant symptoms.

The essence of extracorporeal therapy is the use of special medical equipment, thanks to which a high-energy sound wave effect is carried out on the affected area, thus stimulating the healing of the PF. Several sessions may be required to completely cure the disease. Using this method, you need to be prepared for some side effects in the form of skin redness and swelling.

During radiation therapy performed x-ray irradiation(in small doses) to the spurs and plantar fascia, providing a long-lasting effect aimed at relieving inflammation.

Doctors prefer to use radiation therapy more often than other methods because of its high efficiency and at the same time low cost.

During the operation, the doctor gets rid of the spur and/or partially cuts the PF fibers. Thanks to the intervention of a surgeon, it is possible to cope with 50 percent of all cases of the disease.

A foot massage can have a beneficial effect on the heel. For this, a low threshold is used, which is found in any apartment. The patient may experience pain at the beginning, but very soon he will feel relief.

Preventive measures in the fight against plantar fasciitis

To avoid heel problems, you should:

regularly change sports shoes (sneakers, for example);
wear shoes with good cushioning in the heel area or arch support;
lose excess weight, if any;
stretch the fascia and Achilles tendon;
Do not jog on hard surfaces.

Plantar fasciitis is a disease that occurs as a result of inflammatory and degenerative processes in the plantar fascia.

The disease is accompanied by pain in the heel, which becomes stronger with load on the foot. Fasciitis also occurs due to damage to soft tissues and bone growths.

In common people this disease called ““’, but this name is not reliable, since the bone growth appears as a result of the disease.

The most vulnerable group of people are women over 40 years of age. Plantar fasciitis can also occur in athletes when they experience severe stress in the heel area.

Causes of the disease

Plantar fasciitis can occur due to prolonged and severe overuse of the ligaments.

This disease mainly affects middle-aged and elderly people.

Weightlifters, ballerinas and track and field athletes also very often experience fasciitis due to special loads.

The list of main problems that cause the disease includes:

strong and prolonged stress on the legs;
when the shoe wears down, the position of the foot takes incorrect position, also called pronation, i.e. turning of the foot when walking inward;
long-term wearing of tight shoes and high-heeled shoes;
V lumbar region spine;
problems with insufficient blood supply legs, due to obliterating atherosclerosis;
excess weight;
high arches of the foot and are also dangerous factors;
diseases of inflammatory and degenerative type (arthrosis and arthritis);
against the background of age-related changes, a thinning of the layer of subcutaneous fatty tissue in the heel area may occur;
and thin the layer of tissue in the heel area, which provokes the appearance of the disease.

Factors provoking the development of the disease

These factors can contribute to the development of fasciitis, so you also need to take a closer look at them and correct any mistakes.

The first factor shoes are uncomfortable and tight, so it is better to wear sports shoes or put a soft insole in them.
The second factor is walking barefoot. If you like to go to bare foot, then you should stop doing it. You should only walk at home in slippers.
The third and final factor is overweight. Due to excess, many different serious problems, for example, diseases of the cardiovascular system, but this also creates a huge load on the heel, which is why the disease can worsen. Therefore, it is worth starting to lead healthy image life by eliminating fatty and starchy foods from your diet and exercising regularly.

Symptoms of plantar fasciitis

The most common symptom of the disease is sharp pain in the heel area, which usually occurs when walking.

This pathology has characteristic feature, which is pain when taking the first steps, immediately after waking up.

This factor appears due to the fact that at night, with a long rest, micro sprains in the ligaments begin to heal, and when a person begins to walk, the ligaments are stretched again, causing pain.

Pain may also appear after long stay in one position, after special physical exertion and, in principle, playing active sports. According to patient descriptions, the pain with fasciitis is similar in sensation to the pain when piercing the foot with a pin.

Also, as the disease progresses, it may appear Blunt pain. As a rule, pain appears only in the plantar area of the heel. But in some cases, the back surface of the bone may also begin to hurt.

If fasciitis is in neglected form, then a person may stop walking altogether, since it is very difficult to move without stepping on the heel, this can also cause other diseases associated with socks and outer part feet.

Diagnosis of fasciitis

Marginal osteophyte of the calcaneus (calcaneal spur) on a radiograph of the foot

If the symptoms described above occur, you should immediately contact a specialist. He, in turn, must examine the patient’s leg and be sure to conduct an X-ray examination, only then will the doctor be able to accurately determine the severity of the disease and prescribe effective method treatment.

During the examination, the doctor examines the heels for swelling and points where pain occurs. But the X-ray results will show growths of the heel bone.

Often, with symptoms of fasciitis, patients do not know which specialist to contact; this disease is dealt with traumatologists and orthopedists, but if the clinic closest to you does not have this specialist, You can seek help from a surgeon.

Treatment of plantar fasciitis

For the disease, anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving medications are used. As a rule, various massages are used and physical therapy. In more severe cases, laser therapy is also used.

Drug treatment

To treat fasciitis, take anti-inflammatory drugs (not containing steroids). Painkillers you can take:

Naproxen;
Hydrocortisone ointment;
Aspirin;
Ibuprofen (ointments and tablets);
Indomethacin ointment.

The remedies will remove inflammation in the leg and reduce pain. You also have the choice of using tablets or creams.

If you decide to be treated with pills, take them only after meals. And if you resorted to creams, then without any prescriptions, simply apply them to the inflamed area.

If the symptoms become severely aggravated, it is worth using corticosteroids (diprospan, flosterone). Injections of this drug will temporarily relieve pain, but still do not forget that this is only a temporary solution to this problem.

The injections are quite painful, and if you overuse them, you can seriously damage your heel.

Surgical interventions

Before resorting to surgery, you need to see a specialist physical therapist. He will definitely tell you what to do, and will be able to tell you whether it is necessary to resort to such serious methods cure the disease.

Consult a physiotherapist only after using all other (non-medical) treatments. You may not have to lie down on the surgical table at all, and other options will help eliminate plantar fasciitis.

If, nevertheless, no methods could stop the development of the disease, then, of course, it is necessary to resort to surgical intervention, since this is the only remaining method. This procedure can completely eliminate inflammation in the ligaments and relieve sprains. During surgery, part of the ligaments is removed, which eliminates the fasciitis.

But not everything is so good; during surgery, you need to be aware that there are a number of risks; the list of dangers associated with surgery includes:

development of neuroma;
infections;
tarsal tunnel syndrome;
constant sharp pain and swelling.

There is also a risk that long time After surgery, the ability to regenerate wounds will slow down.

You should take the operation seriously and contact a truly good specialists, remember that health is more valuable than money. Therefore, you need to go to a clinic with a good reputation.

Use of extracorporeal shock wave therapy

This method is more safe option rather than surgery. Treatment occurs through referral sound waves into the affected area, the method is aimed at relaxing the leg muscles.

This type treatment is used only if symptoms of fasciitis do not disappear after 6 months of treatment.

The procedure also has side effects such as swelling of the treated area, and bruising. The method is not as aggressive as surgery, but also less effective.

Various Alternative and Home Treatments for Fasciitis

Insoles for shoes

To reduce the load on your feet, you need to use different kinds insoles and heels. It is advisable, of course, to use orthopedic insoles. This type of insoles provides additional support for the feet.

You need to put orthopedic insoles in two shoes, that is, if you only have pain in one leg, you don’t need to use insoles on only one leg. After all, shoes should be balanced, which can prevent heel pain.

To choose the right insoles, you need to contact the appropriate specialist, who, in turn, will find out the parameters of your feet and write out an order for special orthopedic shoes.

You can also use so-called orthoses, prosthetic devices in the form of boots. The orthosis is a fixation for the legs during sleep, since the foot is rigidly placed at an angle closer to the lower leg.

This method will help the micro-tears that form during the day to heal properly.

Physical therapy (6 effective exercises for plantar fascia)

Exist complex exercises for the prevention of plantar fasciitis. Only 6 exercises will be listed.

1 exercise.

In the first exercise you need to lean on the wall and extend your arms. Once you are confident that your leg is extended as far back as possible while the other is slightly in front, shift your weight to your back leg.

Then, move your body forward, without lifting your heels, and remain in this position for 30 seconds until you feel a stretch.

Exercise 2.

In this exercise, you need to stretch your feet as far as possible, and then use your hands to bend all your toes back, paying special attention to your big toe.

This exercise must be done alternating, that is, first bend the knee, and then do the exercise with the leg straightened.

The foot should be kept in a state of tension for greater effectiveness. The exercise is performed 10 repetitions, 2-3 times a day.

Exercise 3.

To perform this exercise you need to take a small stool. Stand on a stool, rest your hands on a stable support, ideal option there will be a wall. When you are confident that you can maintain balance, then begin the exercise.

Stand on your toes and strain your foot, you need to stand in this position for 30 seconds and then return to the starting position. The exercise is performed for 10 repetitions, 3 times a day.

Exercise 4

To do this exercise, take a small towel and lay it on the floor. Then try to lift it using only your toes. Hold the towel for about 30 seconds, then slowly release and relax your legs. Perform 10 repetitions, 3 times a day.

Exercise 5

This exercise involves stretching your feet so that your toes are under tension. Then apply light pressure to the fascia area and make circular movements.

This exercise should be done several times a day until a feeling of relaxation appears in the arch of the foot.

Exercise 6

For this exercise you need to take cold jar, for example, with soda, or some small ball, and then press on it with your foot and begin to roll it along the floor in order to achieve relaxation of the arch of the foot. It is worth doing 30 to 50 repetitions a day to keep your feet relaxed.

Other methods of treating the disease.

Other treatment methods include massages, mud and mineral baths and warming rubs. Gamma therapy is also sometimes used.

Gamma therapy is performed on radiotherapy units widely used in the field of oncology.

Disease Prevention

Some of the treatments are also applied beforehand to prevent fasciitis. Several of these methods need to be highlighted:

maintaining the body in appropriate shape;
wearing comfortable shoes, or better yet, orthopedic ones;
do not test your legs with excessive physical activity;

Plantar fascia prognosis

This disease has a very favorable forecasts and can pose a health hazard only in its advanced form. Also, if a bone formation on the fascia is fractured, the disease can take a severe form.

Videos on the topic

Heel pain that gets worse with normal walking and running is not easy unpleasant problem, such a symptom may signal the development of a disease called plantar fasciitis. What is this disease and is it possible to treat it at home?

Why does your heel hurt?

Fasciitis of the sole is popularly called a heel spur because of the peculiar bone growth that appears with this disease. Heel pain occurs due to severe inflammation and deformities of the plantar fascia, the part of the sole that connects the heel and phalanges of the toes.

The appearance of plantar fasciitis is provoked by the following factors:

the presence of flat feet, as well as a high arch of the foot;
overweight;
physical activity, standing for long periods of time;
osteochondrosis, joint diseases - arthritis, arthrosis.

The main symptom of this disease is acute pain in the heel, which can appear after waking up. Swelling appears on the foot, and over time the pain can spread to the arch of the foot and ankle.

Diagnosing plantar fasciitis is not difficult. The doctor will have enough visual inspection and x-ray.

How to treat:

To treat plantar fasciitis, it is necessary, first of all, to reduce the load on the foot and limit mobility. You can put special orthopedic insoles into your shoes, which will help secure the heel well and keep the foot at the desired angle to the shin. At night, at home, you can wear special orthoses-boots that stretch the plantar fascia and allow it to heal.
The benefits are undeniable various massages in the treatment of fasciitis. Also, a person with this disease should not forget about physical exercises aimed at stretching the fascia and lower leg, which can be done at home.
In addition to the above methods, various physical procedures help well in the treatment of plantar fasciitis. Warming up, ultrasound, laser exposure - doctors recommend doing them regularly for maximum effect.
In case of severe pain that does not go away, you can use anti-inflammatory non-hormonal ointments. Indomethacin, Advil, Diclofenac quickly relieve pain.
In very severe and advanced cases, the doctor can conduct a course of injections with hormonal drugs, they must be placed in the fascia area. If this method does not help, surgery may be necessary. During such an operation, the doctor will remove the bone growth and altered tissue.

Time-tested recipes

You can always supplement drug therapy at home with folk remedies. Compresses made from garlic with lard, horseradish with laundry soap, cinquefoil root, sunflower flowers.

You can also try making foot baths from whey and walnuts.

Hot boiled potato lotions, beet juice, mixed with apple cider vinegar, psyllium seeds will also have an anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect.