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Plantar Fascia Rupture Symptoms

The plantar fascia is a ligament that stretches across the entire length of the bottom of the foot. A rupture is not a common plantar fascia injury, but it can occur in conjunction with plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis can progress from small tears in the ligament to a complete tear or rupture when there is too much stress on the ligament. When the plantar fascia ruptures, the symptoms are much like plantar fasciitis symptoms. However, the severity of the symptoms increase, making plantar fascia rupture easy to identify.

  1. Symptoms

    • Plantar fascia rupture causes swelling underneath the foot. Severe pain in the heel normally occurs with the swelling. The pain is more extreme in the morning, and then fades throughout the day. Rest tends to improve the pain from plantar fascia rupture.

    Identification

    • While a plantar fascia rupture mimics other foot injuries, the key to its identification is the location and the severity at different times. The pain is the worst when first rising, and by the end of the day it fades to a dull ache. The pain never completely goes away, it just lessens in severity. Bone fractures or other skeletal problems cause pain that does not fade, it tends to get worse. The pain is very specific and localized to the bottom of the foot. Pain that also shoots or travels elsewhere is likely due to another problem, and not simply plantar fascia rupture.

    Considerations

    • The most common causes of plantar fascia rupture are overuse and strain. This strain can come from a variety of sources. Weight gain, obesity, worn-out shoes and arch issues are all contributing factors to strain. Overuse occurs when a person runs or exercises too much.

    Treatment

    • Treatment varies depending on the cause. All types require rest and gentle stretching of the plantar fascia. Ice reduces swelling and inflammation and provides temporary pain relief. Anti-inflammatory medications may be helpful for pain relief and a reduction in inflammation also. Taping the arch of the foot also provides stability and relief for plantar fascia ruptures. People with arch issues should consider getting fitted for orthotic inserts. Severe cases of plantar fascia rupture may need a cortisone injection to reduce inflammation and allow the plantar fascia to heal properly.

    Warning

    • If a person suspects a plantar fascia rupture, he should contact his physician and make an appointment. The doctor may be able to identify the rupture by observing the foot. If not, the doctor can order a magnetic resonance imaging test , or MRI, to confirm the ligament tear. This test is painless and takes less than an hour. A doctor can refer the patient to a physical therapist for stretching and treatment for the plantar fascia rupture. Do not continue to exercise if a plantar fascia rupture occurs. This will cause the pain to increase, and prolong the rest time necessary to heal the plantar fascia.

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