Plantar Aponeurosis Pain

Inflammation and injury of the plantar aponeurosis can cause foot pain. This condition is common in athletes and can be treated with minimal medical intervention. If left untreated, the pain can cause other injuries in your leg, as you may shift your gait to avoid the pain that comes when your foot hits the ground.

• Plantar aponeurosis injuries cause foot pain.

Location of the Plantar Aponeurosis

• According to the Mayo Clinic, the plantar aponeurosis is found on the bottom of your foot. It's the taut band of connective tissue that runs from your heel to the base of your toes. This connective tissue is also commonly known as the plantar fascia. It supports the arch of the foot and provides shock absorption when your foot hits the ground as you walk.

Causes of Pain

• The Mayo Clinic states that pain in the aponeurosis is caused by a condition known as plantar fasciitis. This is inflammation or tearing of the connective tissue that is usually caused by overstress or repetitive movements. The condition is common in runners and those who work on their feet. It usually effects only one foot at a time.

Types of Pain

• Aponeurotic pain is usually the most acute in the morning, when you first step on your foot after a night of sleep. During sleep, the plantar fascia is contracted, and your first steps cause pain as the tissue warms up. The pain is a sharp, stabbing sensation that usually occurs at the front of the heel. The pain can also occur upon standing after a long period of sitting, after athletic exertion or after a long period of standing.

Treatment

• The Mayo Clinic points out that most patients recover after a few months with conservative treatments. The pain can be treated with simple over-the-counter medications like Advil or Motrin. A medical professional might prescribe physical therapy sessions, a night brace that keeps your foot in a stretched out position or a shoe insert that is meant to reduce the stress on the area.

Seek Medical Advice

• If you have foot pain and suspect you have plantar fasciitis, bring it up on your next doctor's visit. A medical professional will be able to determine if you have plantar fasciitis or if some other condition is causing your foot pain. He will also advise you on activities you should avoid. If the pain is chronic, he may recommend treatments like extracorporeal shock wave therapy.