Ice Wraps to Relieve Foot Pain

Plantar fasciitis is a common, but painful condition of the foot. It causes heel pain. The pain is typically the worst first thing in the morning or after a long period of sitting still, when the foot is stiff from inactivity. The pain may also get worse after long periods of standing.

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is pain and inflammation of the plantar fascia. The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue on the bottom of the foot that connects the heel bone to the toes and supports the arch of your foot.

Strain on the plantar fascia creates micro tears, inflammation, and pain.

Causes and Risk Factors

Plantar fasciitis most often develops in people between the ages of 40 and 60 and is more common in women than men. People of any age can develop the painful condition. Causes and risk factors include:

• Flat feet
• Very high arch
• Abnormal walking pattern
• Tight calves or tight Achilles tendon
• Running and other types of exercise which put stress on your heel
• Standing for long periods of time
• Obesity
• Shoes that fit poorly or do not have enough cushion or arch support

Plantar Fasciitis Treatment

Staying off your feet is one of the most important things you can do to correct plantar fasciitis. Standing, walking, and running make the condition worse.

Cold therapy can relieve the pain and inflammation, and can be used whenever you are in pain. It can also be used to make you more comfortable when performing stretching and strengthening exercises. ICE Down cold compression wraps for the foot and ankle offer a great way to relieve plantar fasciitis pain.

Stretching and strengthening exercises can help heal existing plantar fasciitis and prevent future episodes. Stretching exercises are performed loosen up the plantar fascia and the calf. Strengthening exercises include toe curls and toe tapping.

Long-term relief from plantar fasciitis involves eliminating or correcting the cause. Staying off your feet is not a realistic option for everyone, but you can compensate by wearing good shoes. Your shoes should have a flat heel, good arch support, and plenty of cushioning.

Biomechanical problems with the way you walk can cause improper weight distribution putting a strain on the plantar fascia. You may need to talk to your doctor about corrective footwear.

Night splints are devices you wear while you sleep. They gently stretch you calves and the arch of your foot.

To learn more about I.C.E. DOWN ice wraps for plantar fasciitis pain, or to place and order, please visit our online store today.