Kates Bros, shoes and comfort footwear for plantar fasciitis

Definition

Plantar Faciitis is a persistent pain located on the plantar (bottom) of the heel and the medial (inside) of the foot. The plantar faciitis is a fibrous, tendon-like structure that extends the entire length of the bottom of the foot, beginning at the heel bone and extending to the base of the toes.

During excessive activity, the plantar fascia can become irritated, inflamed and event tear if the area is subjected to repetitive stress. Heel contact during the gait cycle exposes a specific area to the stress. This area is known as the medial-plantar aspect of the heel where the plantar fascia attaches to the heel bone.

Symptoms

The pain resulting from this injury is most noticeable in the morning when the first few steps are taken, but then subsides with prolonged walking. Likewise, during athletic activity the pain will occur in the beginning of the exercise routine and then subsides as activity continues.

Causes of Injury

Plantar Fasciitis is more common in people who have a high arch, rigid type of foot, or a flat, pronated foot. In motion, the plantar fascia experiences continuous stress and excessive pulling which results in inflammation and pain.

A high arch foot has a tight band-like plantar fascia that is rigid during the gait cycle.
The plantar fascia is stretched in the pronated foot by excessive motion.
Improper shoe selection can be the cause of the injury: foot and gait type must be considered.
Stiff-soled shoes can cause stretching of the plantar fascia.
Overworn shoes allow the foot to pronate more extensively and can result in an injury to the plantar fascia.
The most common cause is a sudden increase in the amount or intensity of activity within a short period of time.

Plantar Fasciitis (also called a heel spur) is one of the most diagnosed foot ailments. Footwear can play an important part in prevention and maintenance. Prescribed orthotics can be beneficial. Your physician can recommend and prescribe treatment to best solve the problem. These might include:

Rest (non-weight bearing activity)
Foot Exercises
Orthotics
Shoes

Drew Footwear is often recommended and prescribed by physicians for this condition. They are designed with long counters for support and stability, supple aniline leathers for breathability, and lasts with extra toe room and vertical depth to accommodate doctor prescribed orthotics.

Be sure to consult your physician with your questions and concerns about Plantar Fasciitis. Your physician, your shoe store and Drew Footwear are a great combination for comfort and fit.