Number one

Plantar Fascia

It’s that time of year again. The weather is changing and so are our shoes. As the glorious fall colours call us to explore our nature-filled community (and we spend more time outside raking the leaves off our lawns), our feet can become vulnerable to strain.

Plantar Fascia & Plantar Fasciitis

plantar-fasciaThe plantar fascia is a sheet of connective tissue that runs from the heel to the bases of the toes along the sole of the foot. It is tough and doesn’t stretch and its function is to support the arch of the foot while standing.  Shoes with poor support, low arches, prolonged standing on hard surfaces or lots of walking, running or hiking can stress this tissue and lead to inflammation and pain. This pain is usually most pronounced when standing after a period of inactivity such as sleeping or sitting and will fade after hobbling around for a few minutes. This condition is known as “plantar fasciitis” or inflammation of the plantar fascia

The help reduce the symptoms of this condition, ensure you have the proper support for your arches and use a castor oil compress.

Castor Oil Compress

Soak a J-Cloth, thin facecloth or clean rag with castor oil. Place the wet rag along the sole of the foot. Wrap the cloth and foot together with plastic wrap to hold the rag against the skin. Pull a sock over the whole thing to keep the foot warm and prevent the compress from falling off. Go to bed like that for 2-3 nights in a row and there should be pronounced relief of your symptoms.

Remember, the condition will recur if the aggravating factors are not corrected so look to your shoes for good support and shock absorption and have your posture and spinal mechanics assessed by your chiropractor or registered massage therapist!