How can I reduce the pain from plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis may be to blame for your heel pain. Orthopedic surgeon Vonda Wright, MD, shares 5 tips for effective plantar fasciitis treatment.

Transcript

00:00

Your plantar fascia, the thick ligament connecting your heel to your toes, needs a break.

00:06

But resting your foot doesn't mean you have to sit around. [MUSIC PLAYING]

00:19

Plantar fasciitis is a form of heel pain that can linger for weeks. How can you make the pain go away

00:25

and get back to the activities you love? First, let it rest. The more you rest your foot, the better.

00:32

Your plantar fascia, the thick ligament connecting your heel to your toes, needs a break.

00:38

But resting your foot doesn't mean you have to sit around. Switch to activities that don't press on your feet.

00:45

Try swimming or rowing or use weight machines. And give yourself a 10 to 15-minute

00:52

ice massage twice a day. Roll your foot back and forth over a can of frozen juice to increase blood flow and help break down the adhesions

01:01

from the inflammation. A nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory such as ibuprofen also helps relieve pain.

01:09

Stretch your feet before you get out of bed. It'll reduce the pain, which is usually worse first thing

01:15

in the morning. Stretch your feet during the day, too. Finally, choose your footwear wisely.

01:22

Ladies, save your stilettos for weddings and parties. [AUDIO LOGO]