Plantar Fasciitis: Why Do My Feet Hurt?

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.  Reflexology is a form of bodywork applied to the feet that is a tool worth considering for its non-invasive nature and holistic approach to wellness.  Doctors often recommend friction massage to the bottom of the foot, but a reflexologist looks further at how PF affects the entire body and may apply a broader approach with attention to other areas

Holistic Approach for Helping Plantar Fasciitis (“PF”)

If you have been diagnosed with Plantar Fasciitis, you’ve likely tried conventional methods of treatment from physical therapy to medications.  These may provide temporary relief but the pain often returns weeks, months or even years later.  What’s missing?  Addressing the cause and effect.

Causes and Aggravants

• ·      Increase in physical activity (walking, running, standing, exercise equipment)
• ·      Non-supportive footwear (high heels, slippers, flip flops, extremely flat sandals)
• ·      Faulty foot/leg structure, injuries, weak arches, improper gait
• ·      Excess body weight.  A force of 3x our weight is absorbed through legs and feet with each step.  So, a 200 lb. body exerts 600 lbs. of pressure into the feet.

Reasons PF Symptoms Return:

• ·      Band-aid treatments (drugs, braces, shots), not seeking the causes
• ·      Inconsistent treatment or stopping short of frequency to get results
• ·      Lack of self-care with exercise, stretching, ice therapy, etc.
• ·      Lifestyle habits remain that cause or aggravate or worsen PF
• ·      Maintenance sessions aren’t schedule for preventative measures
• ·      Use of medications that mask pain and give a false sense of resolve

How Can Reflexology Help PF

With the application of specific techniques, reflexology can improve circulation for lower legs and feet, reduce adhesions in fascia, help to ease muscle tension and provide pain relief.  Lymphatic techniques reduce soft-tissue inflammation.  Reflexology stimulates endorphins to reduce pain overall.  Cold therapy reduces inflammation while heat therapy reduces pain.

Dr. Andrew Weil, MD comments on reflexology:

“Reflexology is a foot-focused therapy…a health-supporting treatment.  I’ve prescribed reflexology for plantar fasciitis and foot and ankle problems with good result.”

If you have PF, consider adding reflexology to your regiment of care.  Call (210) 967-4400 for more information or to schedule your appointment.