According to the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health (IJERPH), plantar fasciitis is responsible for most heel pain cases in middle-aged individuals. This leaves many wondering, “Can I walk with plantar fasciitis?” This condition causes different levels of discomfort—while severe cases make it challenging to walk, movement is manageable in mild and moderate cases.
Understanding Plantar Fasciitis
This condition occurs when the plantar fascia, the connective tissue on the underside of your foot, stretches, tears, or gets inflamed. The plantar fascia stretches from the heel to the toes and is responsible for cushioning the foot when walking and running. Besides the arch, heel, toes, and balls of their feet, plantar fasciitis patients may also experience pain in their backs, knees, and hips.
Note that some groups are more prone to this condition than others. They include:
- People with obesity
- Professionals who stand for too long
- People in sports that put too much pressure on the heels (aerobics, long-distance running, ballet, etc.)
- People aged 40-60
Can I Walk With Plantar Fasciitis?
If you’re suffering from plantar fasciitis, walking around after sitting or lying for extended periods stretches your ligaments to ease your symptoms.
However, the pain will increase over time as you proceed with your daily activities. This is especially true if you stand on hard floors too long or wear unsupportive shoes.
What Can You Do When the Pain Is Too Much?
See a doctor if your plantar fasciitis is too painful to walk. They will check your medical history, feel your feet for tenderness, perform imaging tests, and recommend appropriate short-term and long-term treatments.
Temporary Relief
It could take months for the plantar fascia to recover. As such, your doctor may recommend the following measures in between your treatment plans:
- Foot massages
- Stretching exercises
- Ice packs
- Rest and foot elevation
- Wearing supportive footwear
- OTC anti-inflammatory drugs (consult your doctor before trying new medications)
- Switching to low-impact exercises
Long-Term Management
You have various treatment options depending on the severity of your condition. They include:
- Physical therapy to strengthen leg muscles
- Night splints to stretch the calf and foot while you’re sleeping
- Custom orthotics to redistribute foot pressure
In case non-operative therapy doesn’t work, your doctor can recommend surgery or the following minimally invasive treatments to relieve your pain.
- Partial plantar fasciotomy to activate a healing response
- Botulinum toxin injections to reduce pressure on the calf muscles and plantar fascia
- Surgery to separate the heel bone from the plantar fascia
- Ultrasonic tissue repair to break up infected tissue
- Plasma injections to activate a healing response
Book an Appointment
Still wondering, “Can I walk with plantar fasciitis?” Absolutely! However, you need a doctor to diagnose the condition to prevent your symptoms from worsening. Even if you’re not unwell, regular podiatric check-ups come in handy to identify subtle symptoms. Ready for compassionate foot care? Foot Specialists of Birmingham is ready for you. Book an appointment with us today.
