Tips for Preventing Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is a painful condition of the foot in which the band of tissue that connects the toes and heel bones is strained, weakened, swollen, or irritated. The result is a sharp, stabbing pain in the heel when standing or walking. While there are treatments to help with plantar fasciitis, it’s best if you can avoid it altogether since it can take months to be completely resolved. Here are some things a foot doctor in The Woodlands, TX, may recommend to prevent this condition.

Proper Footwear

One of the most important ways to prevent plantar fasciitis is to wear appropriate footwear. Your shoes should have sufficient heel cushioning and good arch support. In addition to good shoes, if you stand throughout most of your day, try to find a thick rubber mat to help reduce the stress on your feet. Avoid going barefoot as much as possible. Even slippers can put additional stress on your feet.

Foot Exercises

Stretching the back of the Achilles tendon as well as doing additional exercises recommended by a foot specialist in The Woodlands, TX, can help reduce your chances of plantar fasciitis and other painful foot problems.

Alternate Workouts

Alternate your workouts so that you’re not doing a lot of running on consecutive days. It’s also important to have well-supported arches in the shoes you exercise in.

Control Weight

Unfortunately, heavier people are more prone to plantar fasciitis because of the additional strain placed on the feet. You can lower your risk of this condition by maintaining a healthy weight. Exercise is also beneficial as long as you wear good shoes and increase activity gradually.