Can reflexology help with 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 heel pain and discomfort in foot.
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is a widespread foot problem often recognized by the inflammation of the plantar fascia. The plantar fascia is a flat band that runs from the bottom of the heel 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. It's one of the top reasons adults, particularly those between the ages of 25 to 65 who lead active lifestyles, experience heel pain.
The causes of plantar fasciitis include:
Increased physical activity such as starting a new exercise routine or overexertion.
High arches or flat feet
Bad shoes or footwear that does not provide adequate support or cushioning.
Obesity or sudden weight gain, which increases pressure on your feet.
Not stretching your calf muscle or Achilles tendon regularly.
Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis
The hallmark symptom of plantar fasciitis is, quite simply, pain in the heel. This can show up as:
A sharp or stabbing pain around the heel, which is usually most noticeable when you take your first steps in the morning or after you've been sitting for a while.
Although getting moving might ease the pain a bit, it tends to flare up again after long stretches of walking, standing, or after a heavy workout.
You might also feel some stiffness in your foot first thing in the morning or after long periods of not moving around much.
Ways to Relieve Plantar Fasciitis Pain
Most cases of plantar fasciitis can be managed without surgery. 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 epsom salt helps by drawing inflammation out of the sore muscles and relaxing the muscle.
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.
Stretching and physical therapy can help improve flexibility and strengthen the muscles in your feet and legs.
Reflexology can help relieve the pain caused by plantar fasciitis.
Benefits of Reflexology For Plantar Fasciitis
Reflexology is an ideal way of relieving the pain caused by plantar fasciitis. Reflexology, which involves applying targeted pressure to specific points on the feet, can offer a holistic and natural approach to managing the condition. By stimulating these pressure points, reflexology helps improve circulation and promotes healing in the affected areas.
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.
Regular reflexology sessions not only address immediate discomfort but can also help prevent future flare-ups by maintaining the flexibility of the foot's soft tissues. It's essential to complement reflexology with other preventative measures, such as stretching exercises, using orthotic inserts for better arch support, and avoiding walking barefoot on hard surfaces. Combining these methods with consistent care can significantly improve the symptoms of plantar fasciitis, enhancing mobility and overall quality of life.
Schedule a Reflexology Session with Sole Therapy
Ready to take the first step toward relief from foot pain? Sole Therapy offers reflexology sessions in Jacksonville, Florida. As a professional massage therapist with decades of experience, I can help alleviate discomfort from plantar fasciitis and other foot conditions, providing targeted care to relax and rejuvenate your feet. Learn more about what to expect on treatment day. Book a reflexology session today.
Sources:
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/