Persistent Plantar Fasciitis troubleshooting with Ian Griffiths (part1)
Jul 4, 2021
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Ian Griffiths, a podiatrist, researcher, and podcast host specializing in plantar fasciitis, dives deep into the complexities of this common condition. He discusses why plantar fasciitis is so prevalent and the confusions surrounding effective treatments. Common mistakes that runners make while coping with this pain are highlighted, alongside findings from recent research. Griffiths emphasizes the importance of personalized treatment approaches and the psychological factors that often lead to delays in seeking help.
Plantar fasciitis is a multifactorial condition affecting various demographics, dispelling the myth that it's only for older individuals or the overweight.
The confusion surrounding effective treatment options is exacerbated by conflicting information from social media, leading to prolonged suffering and trial and error.
Early intervention is crucial, as many delay seeking help, allowing pain sensitivity to worsen and complicating the recovery process.
Deep dives
Understanding Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is a common and persistent condition affecting runners and can occur across various demographics. It results from the overload of the plantar fascia, which can stem from higher activity levels or even from simple daily activities for less active individuals. The episode highlights that contrary to popular belief, plantar fasciitis isn't exclusive to older adults or overweight individuals; younger, active runners also face this challenge. The complexity of the condition lies in its multifactorial nature, where both increased demands on the tissue or decreased tissue capacity due to inactivity can lead to painful symptoms.
The Downward Spiral of Pain Sensitivity
The discussion addresses how pain sensitivity can spiral out of control, making it challenging for individuals to manage their symptoms effectively. This cycle occurs when initial discomfort leads to reduced activity, which in turn decreases the tissue's threshold for load, making even daily activities painful. The episode emphasizes the importance of early intervention, noting that most individuals see healthcare professionals only after months of pain, which complicates recovery. It presents the concept of putting in place strategies to address and manage tissue sensitivity before gradually reintroducing activity to restore function.
Challenges in Identifying Effective Treatments
Many individuals struggle to find effective treatments because of conflicting information and personal experiences shared on social media. The podcast discusses the need to discern between anecdotal evidence and scientifically supported treatments, as advice that works for one person may not apply to another. Runners often fall into a cycle of trial and error, seeking quick fixes from online sources that do not address their underlying issues. The conversation touches on the confusion surrounding effective treatments, leading to prolonged suffering without proper guidance.
Common Missteps in Managing Pain
Listeners are urged to recognize common missteps that individuals with early stage plantar fasciitis make, which may impede recovery. There is a tendency to over-rely on passive interventions, like foam rolling, while neglecting active load management and training modifications that could promote healing. Additionally, many individuals assign blame solely to footwear rather than examining their overall activity levels and training habits. The episode stresses the importance of prioritizing the identification of training errors and focusing on the larger, impactful changes that contribute to managing the condition.
Best Practices for Recovery
The discussion culminates in outlining best practices for managing plantar fasciitis effectively. Key strategies include stretching, individualized education on the condition, and potential supportive therapies such as taping and orthotics. While strengthening exercises are acknowledged as beneficial, they may not receive as much emphasis initially compared to stretching and load management. The episode serves as a reminder that a well-rounded, educated approach incorporating both understanding and practical rehabilitation techniques can empower individuals to take control of their recovery from plantar fasciitis.
Part 1 of 2: Brodie Chats with Podiatrist, researcher & podcast host Ian Griffiths all about Plantar Fasciitis. We talk about the harsh reality of this heel pain and why is it so common, along with the confusion involving treatment.
Some topics that we cover:
Why is plantar fasciitis so prevalent?
Why is so it hard to seek effective treatment?
What are some common mistakes running with PF make?
What does the evidence indicate regarding treatment?