Studies say an average person spends about 4 hours on their feet and takes about 8,000-10,000 steps a day. No wonder we get pain!
Massage therapy can be beneficial in aiding pain relief and recovery for patients with Foot pain(Plantar fasciitis, aka plantar heel pain syndrome) helping them get back on their feet.
What is the plantar fascia?
Plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue that covers the bottom of the foot from the heel to front of foot. It provides support while standing, as well as absorbing shock during movement.
While plantar fasciitis is often caused by overexertion, you should also know that tight hamstring and gluteal muscles, overpronation and high arched feet may exacerbate foot pain. Improper footwear can also put undue strain on the plantar fascia, particularly in athletes.
The tissues can degenerate over time, causing varying degrees of pain. The muscles of the calf and ankle may shorten during sleep, making symptoms worse first thing in the morning.
How can we help?
Since shortening of the calf muscles can cause undue stress on the bottom of the foot (plantar fascia), you may find that deep tissue treatment of calf and ankle muscles can help reduce symptoms of foot pain. We are also able to massage, manipulate and stretch the bottom.
How you can help?
Against the wall, lean in while trying to get your back heel to the ground. This may not be possible if your calf muscles are extremely tight.
Remember never to force a stretch.
30 second hold on each leg, 2 times each leg, performed three times per day. (Even if pain is only in one foot do both sides)
What other options could help?
If massage and stretching don’t help alleviate pain you could look at other options, such as but not limited to Orthotics, Acupuncture and Physiotherapy.