If left undiagnosed and untreated, plantar fasciitis, a condition in which connective tissue in the foot becomes inflamed, can turn into a very serious problem in which the only solution might be expensive orthopedic surgery. To avoid this, it is important to know and be able to recognize the signs and symptoms of plantar fasciitis and the way in which it is diagnosed.
Before learning the symptoms of plantar fasciitis, it is important to recognize the primary causes of the condition. Generally, plantar fasciitis is considered an overuse injury, usually caused by repetitive movement of the selective area in the foot, but it can also be commonly found in those that are obese, have flat feet or diminished arch, and those that wear shoes too small for their feet. The reasons why these are probable causes for the condition is because every one of them causes increased pressure and weight placed on the plantar fascia, the connective tissue that when inflamed, results in plant fasciitis.
Now on to the symptoms. The most common symptom of plantar fasciitis is a “first step” syndrome, in which the first step taken for the day causes the individual immense pain and agony. Often times it doesn’t even need to be the first step for the day though, and can even occur after just short rests. Although this isn’t the only symptom of plantar fasciitis, it is certainly the easiest to recognize and identify.
If an individual suspects they are suffering from plantar fasciitis, the immediate route should be visiting a doctor, who will then properly diagnose the situation using observation, x-rays, and/or other forms of scientific examination. Regardless, without knowing the symptoms, an individual will have no way of knowing that they should see a doctor, eliminating their chance at a proper diagnosis and the start on the route to recovery. However, now that you know that symptoms of plantar fasciitis, perhaps you can help yourself or others by identifying it when it occurs and ensuring that the individual receives proper medical attention.