Plantar Fasciitis
This injury is a common form of tendinitis that affects the foot’s plantar fascia, which spans the distance from the heel to the toes. Plantar fasciitis is normally characterized by pain in the arch of the foot or at the heel, particularly in the morning before the fascia of the foot has had a chance to warm up and bear weight. In some cases, it can cause a degree of degeneration of the plantar fascia. The degeneration may cause scar tissue to form, causing the plantar fascia to lose mobility.
When receiving treatment a massage therapist may work on the Achilles tendon which is found on the lower leg below the calf muscle. Often, this tendon will be worked on first before preforming deep tissue on the plantar fascia. Then, detailed work on the soles of the foot will begin followed by work to the base of each toe. Anyone with plantar fasciitis should rest after extended walking or running. Individuals should consider getting arch supports to prevent the injury from exacerbating. Stretching by rolling a tennis ball or racquetball under the foot can be helpful. Roll the ball from the heel to the toes and back again for at least one minute in the morning before daily activities. Plantar fasciitis is more common with runners but it may occur in any athlete who runs regularly or performs dynamic foot movements.