Definition of Plantar Fasciitis

The Plantar Fascia is a wide band of fibrous (stringy) tissue which runs along the bottom (sole) of the foot. This band of tissue is attached at the heel bone and extends forward to the base of the toes. The Plantar- Fascia helps to hold the foot arch together and serves as a shock absorber during activity. When there is an over-stretching of the Plantar Fascia a condition known as Plantar Fasciitis may occur.

Possible Causes of Plantar Fasciitis

* Improperly Fitted Footwear - Wearing shoes that are too tight and do not provide the appropriate foot arch support or allow for the proper range of motion of the entire foot may be a contributing factor. Sudden switches in footwear (such as abruptly changing from high heels to flats or boots to athletic shoes, etc.) may also bring on this condition.

* Over-Pronation ("Flat Feet") - is the leading cause of Plantar Fasciitis. With Over-Pronation, during walking the arch of the foot collapses under the pressure of the weight being placed on the foot. The collapse of the foot arch causes the Plantar Fascia to be stretched away from the heel bone where it is attached.

* High Foot Arch - An unusually high foot arch may be a factor.

* Excessive Weight (Obesity) - Too much weight on the foot from either obesity or pregnancy may be a factor.

* Increased Physical Activity - A sudden increase in physical activity may bring on this condition.

Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis

With Plantar Fasciitis the bottom of the foot usually hurts near the inside where the heel and the arch meet. The degree of discomfort may range from a dull ache to severe pain. The discomfort is often more severe either first thing in the morning upon rising when weight is placed on the foot or after a long rest. This happens because while you rest the Plantar Fascia contracts back to its original shape. As the day progresses and the Plantar Fascia continues to be stretched the pain often eases.

Possible Solutions for Plantar Fasciitis

We at Hawley Lane Shoes believe that wearing shoes that are too tight will inhibit the natural motion of the Plantar Fascia. Proper range of motion of the Plantar Fascia combined with proper arch support will help to optimize the health of the Plantar Fascia and the biomechanics of the foot.

For example, over the past 10 years we have received positive feedback from an abundance of customers who suffered from Plantar Fasciitis. These individuals have shared with us that they have experienced significant relief after wearing clogs, sandals, and shoes that provided their feet with a more functional arch support. As a matter of fact, many people notice almost instant relief once they have slipped on a pair of shoes that provide the proper arch support and allow for the proper range of motion of the Plantar Fascia.