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Plantar Fasciopathy
Plantar Fasciopathy is a comprehensive term utilized to encompass a chronic issue stemming from excessive use of the plantar fascia, leading to discomfort in the heel area. This condition encompasses both stages of harm: the inflammatory stage, referred to as plantar fasciitis, and the subsequent non-inflammatory stage, known as plantar fasciopathy.
Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar Fasciitis is the expression employed to depict heel discomfort resulting from inflammation in the plantar fascia. This typically involves significant pain, warmth, and swelling in the region shortly after the injury. This inflammatory stage usually endures for a brief period, unless the plantar fascia continues to undergo damage due to repetitive overuse. A reliable sign of heel inflammation is experiencing pain in the insertion area of the plantar fascia at the end of the day.
Plantar Fasciosis
Plantar Fasciosis is the term employed to illustrate heel discomfort triggered by the wearing down (deterioration) of the plantar fascia, frequently stemming from repetitive strain. This pain tends to persist over time with minimal fluctuations in the pain pattern from day to day. It is more likely to manifest after periods of rest or prolonged sitting. As the strength of the plantar fascia declines over time, it becomes more susceptible to damage, making it more prone to re-inflammation (plantar fasciitis). Consequently, individuals often find themselves caught in cycles of inflammation. The interplay between inflammation and deterioration perpetuates a cycle where inflammation leads to degeneration, which in turn heightens the risk of further inflammation, and so forth.
Who gets heel pain?
The greatest incidence of heel pain is seen in middle-aged men and women. It is also seen in those who take part in regular activities and those significantly overweight and on their feet a lot. Heel pain can also occur in children, usually between 8-13 as they become increasingly active in sporting activities.
What causes Plantar Heel Pain?
There are numerous factors that can lead to this condition, including prolonged periods of standing or walking on unforgiving surfaces. Engaging in activities like running or jogging can also contribute. Footwear selection is a significant factor, alongside considerations such as age, gender, BMI, and underlying medical conditions. Consequently, pain can arise due to conditions like bone marrow edema within the heel bone (calcaneus), stress fractures along the bone's body, or the presence of a heel spur. Nerve compression and inflammation of intrinsic soft tissues, including the plantar fascia, as well as systemic inflammatory disorders, can also contribute to discomfort. The causes of heel pain encompass a range of factors, some of which are outlined above.
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