Reflexology and Plantar Fasciitis
As a massage therapist, one of the most common foot issues I see when providing reflexology is plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heal pain and discomfort in foot.
The plantar fascia is a flat band the runs from the bottom of the heal to the ball of your foot. This band does not stretch easily so when it goes beyond its ability to stretch it will become weak, swollen and inflamed, and will begin to tear.
There are a number of ways to relieve some of the pain and discomfort caused by plantar fasciitis. If you have inflammation, it is important to try to heal as quickly as possible to avoid scar tissue build up.
-Ice or cold compress helps by reducing inflammation. Cold compress slows down nerve and cell function in the pain area and numbs the nerves. This reduces pain and inflammation.
You can also roll a frozen can of juice/beverage on the bottom of your foot as a way to ice massage your foot.
-Soaking in warm water with epson salt helps by drawing inflammtion out of the sore muscles and relaxing the muscle.
-Reflexology is an ideal way of relieving the pain caused by plantar fasciitis. Reflexology can provide relief by breaking up adhesions in the muscle, ligaments, and tendons in the foot. Stretch and massage movements on the calf up to the knee also helps release tension on the bottom of the foot.
Another important factor in treating platar fasciitis is to wear shoes that offer support to your foot. Try to avoid shoes that bend in the middle. They do not provide enough support and will stretch the plantar fascia.
peace,
Dawn
Resources:
http://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/plantar-fasciitis-topic-overview
http://www.aidmyplantar.com/?REF=MPE_PFIce
http://www.banyanstudio.net/dianakhoury/2010/09/reflexology-for-plantar-fasciitis/
