Plantar fasciitis is a condition that can cause heel pain and often affects people who are on their feet for long periods. The plantar fascia is a wide band of tissue running across the bottom of the feet connecting the heel bone and the toes. When this tissue becomes inflamed, it can cause severe heel pain or arch pain. Plantar fasciitis is a common condition that affects people of all ages.
The exact cause of plantar fasciitis is unknown. However, several risk factors may contribute to the development of this condition. These include large amounts of weight-bearing activity, such as running, walking in high-heeled shoes, difficulty stretching the Achilles tendon, tightness in the hamstring and plantar fascia itself, and, occasionally, a bone spur on the heel bone. In most cases, plantar fasciitis develops gradually over time and is not the result of a single injury.
The most common symptom is a pain in the heel or arch area of the foot. This pain is usually worse after getting out of bed or after prolonged sitting or standing. Here are the most common treatment interventions for plantar fasciitis.
NSAIDs
If you’ve ever suffered from plantar fasciitis, you know how debilitating the condition can be. The constant heel pain makes it difficult to walk, let alone stand, for long periods. Fortunately, treatments available can help lessen the pain and allow you to resume your normal activities. One such treatment is the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs.
NSAIDs work by reducing inflammation and swelling in the foot. This, in turn, helps to relieve pain. Several NSAIDs are available over the counter, including ibuprofen and naproxen. For more severe cases of plantar fasciitis, a doctor may prescribe a more potent NSAID, such as celecoxib or diclofenac.
NSAIDs are typically taken orally in the form of tablets or capsules. However, some NSAIDs are also available in topical form (gels or creams applied directly to the skin). Topical NSAIDs are generally not as effective as oral NSAIDs, but they may be an option for people who cannot take oral medications or have stomach sensitivities. It’s important to note that a physician should only use NSAIDs as directed. Overusing NSAIDs can lead to serious side effects, such as gastrointestinal bleeding and kidney damage.
