How to treat plantar fasciitis of the foot and heel. How to treat plantar fasciitis

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.

ICD-10	M72.2
ICD-9	728.71
DiseasesDB	10114
MeSH	D036981
eMedicine	pmr/107
MedlinePlus	007021

Causes

Plantar fascia (plantar aponeurosis) – dense connective tissue, which is attached to the heel bone 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 standing in an upright position (during sleep), injuries regress on their own. But under the influence of unfavorable factors, fascia 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;
playing sports that place 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

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

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.

Forecast

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.

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 starts to hurt, the person cannot move and walk normally. physical activity. If the problem is just beginning, then you can figure out how to treat plantar fasciitis at home. In case of increased and already intolerable pain, resort to drug therapy. Let's look at these issues in more detail.

Flat feet are another cause of pain. It can be congenital, due to an insufficient amount of connective tissue during the formation of the foot, or 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 in an advanced stage is 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.

Treatment of plantar fasciitis is possible with homeopathic remedies when there are no bone spurs yet. 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 is improved 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 correct application 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 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. In a bowl with 1 liter warm water add 1 teaspoon of soda 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, 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 the peel walnuts. Plantar fasciitis in initial stage or in complex therapy It is good to treat 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, subject the heel fasciitis to heat - wrap it 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 the tissue 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 the hospital, may undergo additional procedures that 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.
Having excess body weight.
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 undergo treatment at home, using traditional 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, most of the unpleasant symptoms. 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 of fasciitis. You can find this medicine at any pharmacy, and you do not need a prescription from a doctor to purchase it. The following recipes based on bile will eliminate heel pain, reduce swelling of soft tissues, 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 water to the affected areas. medicinal composition. 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 a chicken 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 a large container, 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

Aspirin, which is familiar to everyone, has an anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect on plantar fasciitis, eliminating most 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 a course of treatment, many patients stopped complaining about sharp pains 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 the 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 a cotton swab, applied to the sore spot and secured 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 on affected feet, 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 can relieve the unpleasant symptoms of fasciitis, as well as soften cracked and irritated skin in the area of the heel spur. castor oil. 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 methods for getting rid of 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, normalize metabolic processes, relieve pain, and 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 not a large number of butter. Propolis medicine for fasciitis is applied to sore feet every day until complete healing (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, it is necessary to use traditional methods - massage, physiotherapy, patches, 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 the heel bone and phalanges of the toes. 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.

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;
playing sports that place 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

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.

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. During the daytime, patients with fasciitis are recommended 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 conservative treatment of plantar fasciitis is ineffective, 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 it necessary measures, the greater the chances of quickly getting rid of the problem and achieving improved well-being. Therapy for the disease is aimed at relieving pain syndrome and decrease 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 a lot side effects, in particular, have a negative effect on 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 a negative impact on ligamentous apparatus a person, exposing him 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 cold shower.

The use of baths in the treatment of disease

How to treat plantar fasciitis with folk remedies? Alternative medicine involves A complex 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 the 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. Otherwise, there is a high risk of frostbite on your 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 medicine deep 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. This procedure It is advisable to do it 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. Cut off the head of a flowering plant 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. 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. Use the finished product 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 freezer. 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 the inflammatory process without using pharmacological drugs. However, you should be patient, because although this treatment is absolutely safe, it does not act as quickly as medications.

Quite often older people experience painful sensations in the area of the foot during exertion or long walking. It forms on the foot, which is popularly called. However, in addition to heel spurs, heel pain and similar symptoms can also be caused by another disease called plantar fasciitis.

What is plantar fasciitis?

The plantar fascia or aponeurosis attaches to the heel tubercle and supports the longitudinal arch of the foot. Half of his human body weight presses on this fascia. Due to load and pressure, microtraumas of the fascia are possible; they usually heal on their own. But for some people, constant trauma can cause chronic inflammation.

Plantar fasciitis is localized in the heel and causes quite severe pain. It becomes stronger with any load on the heel. This is influenced by the inflammatory process that occurs in the connective membranes of the soles of the feet.

Plantar fascia - zone of inflammation

Sometimes pathology begins to develop after an injury caused by rubbing the plantar area. It is also called a heel spur, but this is incorrect. Plantar fasciitis can be the main cause of heel spurs, a bony growth on the heel bone.

IN international classification diseases of the 10th revision (ICD -10), fasciitis belongs to class M72. The full name is plantar fascial fibromatosis, plantar fasciitis, or plantar aponeurosis. He was assigned the code M72.2.

Causes of the disease

Most often, fasciitis begins to appear due to injuries.

But there are also other reasons:

Flat feet

If your profession requires standing for long periods of time or being in the same position, then people will be prone to developing plantar fasciitis.
Frequent lifting of weights may cause fasciitis. This applies to athletes and people working out in gyms.
Plantar fasciitis can provoke. The load is distributed unevenly on the foot.
Using high-soled shoes often provokes fasciitis. Especially if this happens for a long time.
Heavy weight of a person. Load on the legs and, in particular, the foot provokes the development of fasciitis.
Too intense training. Many professional athletes suffer from this disease.
Age-related changes which can happen gradually.
Improper metabolism contributes to the development of fasciitis. This complication can occur in diabetics and patients diagnosed with atherosclerosis.

IMPORTANT! If you experience pain or instability in your foot, you should consult a doctor!

Diagnostics

How is fasciitis diagnosed?

To do this, you need to contact a specialist who will:

Patient interview. Identifies his complaints and analyzes the information received.
A visual inspection must be carried out determines the nature of pain.
An important point is the question of professional affiliation and the patient’s lifestyle.

Diagnosis of plantar fasciitis

After this, fasciitis is diagnosed using special medical procedures:

X-ray of the foot.
Ultrasonography.
CT scan.

To diagnose fasciitis, you need to contact a traumatologist or surgeon. You may need to consult a therapist and dermatologist. It all depends on the patient’s condition and the cause of the disease.

During the examination, it may be revealed that the patient has already formed a bone growth, which is called a heel spur. They are also determining whether there are places where calcium accumulates.

Heel spurs and fasciitis

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Symptoms and signs of plantar fasciitis

The first sign of the development of the disease is pain. Moreover, it will gradually intensify. It is most strongly felt on the heel from the side of the sole and in the area of the posterior heel bone.

When does it hurt? The pain is greatest in the morning. A person wants to raise his legs higher. In this case, plantar fasciitis can develop on both heels at once or on just one.

Characteristic symptoms:

pain and discomfort in the heel;
difficulty and increased pain when walking;
periodic burning sensations in the heel;
quite noticeable thickening of the entire sole of the foot;
the focus of the disease will be on the heel.

As a result of such processes, a heel spur very often begins to form. In almost 80% of cases, the cause of spur formation is an inflammatory process in the heel.

If a person begins to feel pain in the heel when walking or in the morning, he should go to the hospital. Early treatment of fasciitis will ensure a full recovery.

Fasciitis Treatment Methods

To cure plantar fasciitis, several methods are used:

Drug therapy.
Physiotherapeutic procedures and therapeutic massage.
Exercises and corrective devices.
Traditional methods.

Drug treatment

In the first case, medications will be used. To relieve inflammation, they will prescribe non-steroidal drugs which can relieve inflammation. They will be able to stop the development of the disease.

In this case, the following is prescribed:

Diclofenac tablets Chondroxide ointment Ketoprofen in gel form

With quite severe pain painkillers are prescribed. Especially when it becomes strong when putting weight on the leg. Will help the patient in the treatment of fasciitis Paracetamol, Aspirin.

Means are also used for local use. These can be creams, but they must contain a component that relieves inflammation.

Most often used:

Flucinar.

Fastum Diclak Prednisolone in the form of hydrocortisone ointment for external use

Good results are obtained when using injections directly into the sore spot. Injections are suitable for treating fasciitis .

Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy can improve healing effect fasciitis and speed up the healing process.

It can be:

. It involves applying a magnetic field to the heel. This reduces swelling and relieves inflammation.
Shock wave technique. A special device for shock wave therapy allows high-frequency waves to affect the soft tissues of the foot. This procedure will improve blood circulation, relieve inflammation, and reduce pain.
Phonophoresis consists in combining physical and chemical factors. The ointment will be used together with ultrasonic waves. This enhances its effect and ensures deep penetration into the heel. Hydrocortisone ointment is suitable for this. Pain and swelling will decrease.

It is possible to determine which treatment protocol or method is the most effective using an individual approach. They all bring benefits, but in order for the greatest effectiveness to be achieved, it is necessary to take into account the cause of the disease and the characteristics of the patient.

Special shoes and insoles

If plantar fasciitis develops, it is necessary to use orthopedic shoes and. They will help to properly distribute the load on the foot and get rid of the disease faster. It is better for patients who have suffered from fasciitis to wear such shoes constantly.

For such people you need to select:

shoes with a stable heel, which will be 4 - 5 cm;
warm boots or low shoes with a heel of no more than 5 cm;
comfortable home slippers;
special orthopedic sneakers.

For plantar fasciitis and heel spurs, it is necessary to wear insoles, the best option— heel pads.

The most popular manufacturers of orthopedic shoes and insoles:

Sursil-Ortho.
Ortex.
REZ SP.
LightStep.
Trives.

Orthoses are also used to treat plantar fasciitis. This is a special device that allows you to reduce the load on the leg and heel. When using it, pain decreases, and the patient will be able to engage in physical therapy and move independently.

Orthoses can be custom-made or purchased from a pharmacy or orthopedic shop to treat fasciitis.

What functions does the orthosis perform:

Reduces stress on the soft tissues of the heel.
Fixes the foot.
Strengthens the soft tissues of the heel.
Reduces pain.

Orthoses can be purchased ready-made or made to order. This is not exactly a cheap pleasure, but the therapeutic effect will be much better. Before putting on the orthosis, you can do therapeutic exercises.

Foot support orthosis Silicone orthosis Night orthosis

Physical therapy and exercise

A set of exercises for fasciitis:

On a small stool you need to stand on your toes To maintain stability, the exercise is given against a wall. Fingers raised slightly up. You need to carefully lower yourself onto your heels, but do not bend your knees. Hold this position for 30 seconds.
Lean your hands on the wall. Stretch one leg back and the other forward. The center of gravity falls on the leg, which is set back. Without lifting your feet from the floor, you need to move the center of gravity to the other leg.
You will need a tennis ball. It will need to be rolled with each foot alternately. You need to count at least 30 times.
You need to extend your foot, but your toes should be bent. Fix your foot in this position for 20–30 seconds.
Tighten your feet and massage the sole with your fingers.
Lift the towel with your toes from the floor and hold it for at least 20 seconds.

Towel Exercises to Treat Plantar Fasciitis

Exercises are done regularly every day. You can even do this complex up to 3 times a day. Its duration takes about 10 minutes.

Methods of surgical treatment of plantar fasciitis

With absence positive results use medicines and physical therapy do surgery to treat fasciitis. Such indications will occur when a heel spur forms.

The operation is performed at local anesthesia. Usually they use a spinal one, with its help the person is conscious, but he has no sensitivity in the lower part of the body. The endoscopy method is used for the operation. The sole is dissected and unnecessary growth is removed.

After surgery, when treating fasciitis, complications may occur:

damage to nerve trunks;
the appearance of quite severe pain;
formation of neuroma, benign tumor;
the wound may not heal for a long time.

The recovery period for fasciitis can be lengthy. Much depends on the patient himself.

Kinesio taping

Kinesio taping of the foot is one of the most modern methods. It lies in the ability to correct even quite severe deformation.

Taping is carried out as follows:

tape is applied to clean skin;
the ends need to be rounded so that it lasts as long as possible;
it is cut out with the letter Y;
To activate the process you need to do rubbing.

Foot taping scheme

Ozone therapy

Ozone therapy is referred to as unconventional methods treatment of plantar fasciitis.

It consists in:

Using ozone gas.
Special ozonizers are used.
Can be used externally, intravenously or intra-articularly.
Stops the development of inflammation during faciitis.

Homeopathy

To treat fasciitis, you can use homeopathic remedies that can achieve the following results:

When using special methods, spasms disappear.
Seals disappear.
The nerve endings are clamped.
The elasticity of muscles and ligaments is restored.

Traditional medicine in the treatment of fasciitis

What are the traditional recipes for treating plantar fasciitis?

The simplest recipes:

Iodine mesh.
Baths in salt water with the addition of honey.
Lubricate the affected area with propolis.

You can purchase such products or prepare them at home. You can also use herbs and vegetables, medical bile to treat fasciitis.

Traditional recipes:

Compresses made from cabbage leaves or potatoes. Can be applied to the heel cabbage leaf, potatoes are grated and applied to the heel.
Aloe compress. You need to cut off an aloe leaf and cut it in half. And then they tie it to the sore heel.
Medical bile dilute with vodka in a ratio of 1 to 1 and soak the bandage in this solution. The feet are steamed and a compress is made from a bandage on the heel. The foot is kept warm. You can add a little shampoo to the vodka with bile and also make a compress.
Foil treatment. You will need foil, adhesive tape and tape. The foil will need to be glued to the tape. The reflective side is left on top to treat fasciitis. These strips are secured with a patch on the heel. Leave them on the leg for no more than 2 hours. Use new foil each time.
Treatment using fish. You need to tie raw fish to your foot overnight.
Compresses using vinegar. Vinegar must be diluted with water until safe condition and, having wetted the gauze with the solution, apply it to the foot and wrap it with cloth.

All these methods have been known for quite some time. They can help treat plantar fasciitis, but you should still visit your doctor and listen to his recommendations.

Doctor Bubnovsky's method

According to the Bubnovsky method, treatment of plantar fasciitis should consist of:

Strengthening tissues and ligaments.
Improving and normalizing blood circulation.
Cleansing the body of harmful substances.

Plantar fasciitis (an inflammatory process in the elastic tissues of the foot) can occur in anyone, especially if they are at risk - for example, they play sports, lead an active lifestyle, have flat feet or overweight. If you experience discomfort in your legs – periodic or constant pain, increased swelling, decreased mobility - you should definitely undergo a thorough diagnosis to exclude the possibility of developing plantar fasciitis. If the patient’s fears are confirmed and inflammation begins in his foot, then it is necessary to immediately proceed to treatment of the disease.

Today, doctors use several methods of treating plantar fasciitis, which together give positive effect. At the initial stages of disease development, patients are prescribed various ointments and gels that have an anti-inflammatory, soothing and healing effect. Doctors usually combine this method of eliminating plantar fasciitis with various physiotherapy procedures (phonophoresis, shock wave therapy, etc.), a course of massage, special exercises and unloading the foot in general. When using such a complex therapeutic measures patients experience improvement in more than 90% of cases.

As additional ways effects on plantar fasciitis, patients can be prescribed special biological active additives and folk remedies. For example - on a natural basis. Similar drugs will speed up regeneration processes in damaged tissues, restore and improve metabolism, blood circulation, and reduce pain. Usually when complex treatment a positive effect is achieved within the first 3–6 months from the moment of detection of this unpleasant disease.

Ointments and gels for plantar fasciitis

Due to their diversity, doctors allow medications to be used at almost all stages of the development of plantar fasciitis. Today in pharmacies you can find a large number of ointments, gels and tablets, with which you can eliminate pain in the foot, relieve swelling, stop the inflammatory process, speed up the restoration of damaged elastic tissues, and normalize metabolism. In this regard, tools such as:

Voltaren;
Diclofenac;
Prednisolone ointment;
Viprosal;
Cotractubex;
Chondroxide, etc.

Before using any medications You should definitely consult with your doctor, since almost all ointments and gels that help with plantar fasciitis have a number of contraindications. For example, hormonal agents cannot be used when diabetes mellitus, gastrointestinal diseases, individual intolerance to components, tendencies to allergic reactions, obesity, osteoporosis and other diseases.

Physiotherapy, massage and special exercises

With the help of massage, a set of special exercises, as well as physiotherapy, you can help quick elimination unpleasant symptoms and causes of heel spurs. In this regard, experts advise using methods such as:

Shock wave therapy;
Electrophoresis and phonophoresis;
UHF therapy, etc.

Most physiotherapy procedures are carried out together with the use of medications (for example, with potassium iodide, hydrocortisone ointment or novocaine), as a result of which the effect of the drugs is greatly enhanced.

Massage cannot cure plantar fasciitis, however, it can normalize blood circulation and metabolic processes in soft tissues affected by inflammation. This way of influencing plantar fascia patients can practice both independently at home (especially if there is unbearable pain when walking) and in sessions with specialists. In some cases, it is recommended to combine massage with folk remedies - for example, with salt or sand heated in a frying pan.

Traditional methods of eliminating unpleasant symptoms of fasciitis

Folk remedies based on ingredients such as iodine, salt, honey, propolis, burdock and many others can also relieve pain in the extremities, stop the inflammatory process, improve blood circulation and metabolism in damaged elastic tissues, and reduce swelling. This effect is observed during the course of using compresses, decoctions, baths, and ointments. Before using the above medications, patients need to determine the presence or absence of contraindications, and also consult their doctor to avoid possible deterioration.

All people who have been found to have plantar fasciitis should understand that folk remedies cannot be used as the main method of treatment.

Radical methods of treatment: blockades and surgery

If treatment is insufficiently effective medications patients with a diagnosed heel spur may be prescribed a blockade. This method of treatment quickly brings relief to the patient, and the effect can last for 4-6 months after the procedure (in some cases, the inflammatory process in the foot stops completely). It should be noted that drug blockade for plantar fasciitis should be carried out exclusively by an experienced surgeon. Often, drugs such as:

Diprospan;
Hydrocortisone;
Kenalog.

To achieve the most positive results, patients who have been diagnosed with plantar fasciitis have to undergo this procedure 2 or 3 times. It should be noted that doctors are trying to delay the use of this method of treating plantar fasciitis until the last minute, since after the blockade patients may develop some complications, for example:

Formation and accumulation of pus in the soft tissues where the active substance was injected.
Necrosis and inflammation in the tendon.
Rupture of the plantar fascia.

Surgery is the last option to eliminate plantar fasciitis. This method of treatment is prescribed only when other interventions have not brought the expected results (elimination of the disease or stopping its development). During the operation, surgeons can remove bone growths, if any, as well as elastic tissues affected by the inflammatory process. Depending on the specific course of plantar fasciitis, doctors can choose one of three types surgical intervention:

Open. Might turn around unpleasant consequences, for example, suppuration or the introduction and development of infection at the site of the operation. Often this type of exposure is used in hospitals where modern equipment is not available.
Endoscopic.
Minimally invasive.

In conclusion, it should be noted that in addition to using the above tools, you should:

try to reduce the load on your legs as much as possible;
purchase comfortable shoes with low heels (up to 3–4 cm);
prevent the possibility of gaining extra pounds;
make special baths that will relieve tension and swelling of the legs after a working day;
cure flat feet and a number of diseases of the musculoskeletal system (if any);
devote at least a minimum of time to complete physical exercise and self-massage;
periodically undergo diagnostics, especially if there is some predisposition to plantar fasciitis.

If you notice some symptoms of fasciitis, you should not put off preventive measures and treatment. Otherwise, this can lead to quite disastrous consequences.

Plantar fasciitis is a fairly common disease characterized by the development of an inflammatory process in the flat ligament (fascia), which connects the heel bone to the base of the phalanges of the toes. The disease is accompanied by severe pain at the slightest load on the heel. After a short period of time, if left untreated, the person will not be able to step on his heel.

Most often, this pathology is encountered by athletes, people who spend most of the day on their feet. Quite often, plantar fasciitis occurs in people who are overweight, obese, or have joint diseases. Many people call this disease a heel spur. However, this is not entirely true, since the spur is a consequence of plantar fasciitis.

As a rule, it is prescribed to take anti-inflammatory and painkillers, follow a gentle daily routine, wear comfortable shoes, use massage and perform special exercises. Important condition therapy – maximum reduction load on the affected area. In addition, if the cause of the disease is excess weight, then it is necessary to take measures to reduce it.

Remedies will help in getting rid of the disease alternative medicine. Medicines consisting entirely of natural ingredients will be an excellent addition to the main treatment prescribed by the attending physician and will help minimize the inflammatory process and eliminate painful sensations and swelling.

However, before using one or another folk medicine do not forget to consult your doctor.

Foot baths and compresses

Dissolve a few tablespoons of sea salt in about a liter of boiled, slightly cooled water. Pour the solution into a basin and keep your feet in it for a quarter of an hour. Carry out the procedure every day, preferably before going to bed.
Night compresses. Grind the cinquefoil rhizome, put it in a thermos and fill it with boiled water - half a glass. Place the container in a warm place for several hours. Then filter, grind the roots into a pulp and apply to the sore heel. Cover the top with a napkin, cellophane and bandage. Warm your leg. The compress must be kept overnight.
Application of serum. Pour approximately 700 ml of whey into an enamel pan, place on the stove, boil, and then pour into a basin. Wait until it cools down a bit and steam your feet in it. It is recommended to carry out the procedure every day, before going to bed. After steaming your feet, apply the following compress to the sore heel. Mix cottage cheese and honey in equal proportions, mix, place on a gauze napkin and apply to the affected area, bandage. The compress must be kept overnight.

Preparation of ointments

Combine one raw chicken egg with two tablespoons of vinegar and melted butter - 200 grams, mix. Set aside in a cool place. Apply a thick layer of ointment to the affected area, cover with gauze and cellophane on top, and secure with a bandage. The compress must be left for at least three hours. Don't forget to wear a warm sock. Carry out the procedure twice a day. The course of treatment is until the condition improves.

Application of horseradish. Take the horseradish rhizome and chop it with a grater. Combine 20 grams of raw materials with the same amount of grated laundry soap. Mix the mixture thoroughly and apply to the heel. Cover the top with cellophane and put on a warm sock. Carry out the procedure daily, at night.

Sunflower heals

To reduce the pain of plantar fasciitis, follow these tips.

All of the above traditional medicine and advice from doctors will help you quickly get rid of this rather unpleasant illness. The main condition is no self-medication. You can use any means only after preliminary consultation from your attending physician and only together with medications prescribed by a specialist.