FOOT pain can be unbearable — but experts say it can be cured in just a week.
Plantar fasciitis is a common problem caused by straining the part of your foot connecting your heel bone to your toes.
GettyPlantar fasciitis is a common problem caused by straining the part of your foot connecting your heel bone to your toes[/caption]
It affects up to 7 per cent of older adults and can make getting around more difficult.
However, the condition can usually be fixed at home by following some simple steps.
What is plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is a painful condition affecting the thick, fibrous tissue that acts as a shock absorber for pressure placed on the foot.
It is not clear exactly what causes the strain, but it is more common if you recently started exercising on hard surfaces.
Being aged 40 to 60 and running with a tight calf can also put your more at risk.
Overweight people are also more likely to suffer with it.
What are the symptoms of plantar fasciitis?
The most common symptom of plantar fasciitis is pain on the bottom of your foot.
The pain usually starts towards the heel or arch and tends to become worse when walking after sleeping or resting.
Another sign the pain is being caused by the condition is if it feels better during exercise but is worse after resting.
If you’re unable to raise your toes off the floor, it could also mean you have plantar fasciitis.
How to cure plantar fasciitis in one week
You can usually cure your own plantar fasciitis in one to two weeks.
The NHS recommends resting and raising your foot on a stool when you can.
Wrapping a bag of ice in a towel and applying it to the painful area for 20 minutes every two to three hours can also help reduce swelling.
You should wear shoes with cushioned heels and good arch support, and try using insoles or heel pads.
Gentle stretching and exercises that don’t involve pressuring the sole, such as swimming, are also recommended.