The heels are the foundation for your ability to stand upright and be mobile. When you suffer from heel pain, it can make walking and standing difficult. Plantar fasciitis is an inflammatory condition that has an associated symptom known as post-static dyskinesia which can be especially painful.
What Is Post-Static Dyskinesia?
This medical term simply means “pain after rest” and refers to the phenomenon where a sharp shooting pain develops when you first move around after standing, sitting, or sleeping for an extended period of time. This symptom is experienced in an array of inflammatory orthopedic conditions, including tendinitis, bursitis, and arthritis. Perhaps the most common condition associated with this type of pain, however, is plantar fasciitis.
Post-Static Dyskinesia and Plantar Fasciitis
Individuals who have plantar fasciitis are likely quite familiar with the sharp, lancing pain that often accompanies the first steps of the day. In this condition, the thick band of fibrous tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot (the plantar fascia) has become inflamed, often due to excessive physical activity or a biomechanical imbalance.
When the excessive activity or biomechanical imbalance results in too much tension being applied to the plantar fascia, it responds by developing tiny tears in the tissue. Repeated tearing and stretching result in irritation and inflammation.
During periods of rest and inactivity, particularly during the course of a night’s sleep, the affected tissue works on mending itself from the damage incurred. When weight is placed on the foot, like when the first steps of the day are taken, the fascia becomes torn again, explaining why post-static dyskinesia is so commonly experienced in the morning for those who have plantar fasciitis.
Preventing Morning Heel Pain
When we look at this symptom as a part of plantar fasciitis, the best ways to prevent it are to stretch, maintain a healthy body weight, wear supportive shoes, and cross train.
Stretching your calf muscles, Achilles tendons, and plantar fasciae (plural for “fascia”) at home for a couple of minutes a day can keep the soft tissues limber. Keeping your weight within a healthy range decreases the amount of stress placed on the feet and these tissues. Supportive shoes help by reducing the force that your feet are subjected to during the course of a day. Mixing up your exercises with low-impact activities is a great way to improve your overall levels of fitness, but it also lowers your risk of developing plantar fasciitis.
Treatment Options
If preventative methods do not keep plantar fasciitis and morning heel pain at bay, it is time to look at treatment options. These can include:
- Medication – Ibuprofen, naproxen, and other pain relievers can ease the inflammation associated with the condition, but check with us for the correct dosage as they may cause other problems if overused.
- Therapy – Physical therapy incorporates exercises to stretch the soft tissues and strengthen lower leg muscles, which also improves stability in the ankle and heel.
- Custom orthotics – We may prescribe custom-fitted arch supports, heel cups, or cushions to produce a more equitable distribution of pressure for the feet.
- Surgery – When conservative methods do not produce the desired results, we will discuss the various surgical procedures that can be effective in alleviating symptoms and improving the condition.
Are You Looking for a Plantar Fasciitis Specialist in Austin, TX?
If you are looking for plantar fasciitis care, you should reach out to an experienced podiatrist. Austin Foot and Ankle Specialists can help. Our office provides a wide variety of advanced, effective treatment options for all kinds of painful conditions. Ready to schedule an appointment? Contact us online or call our Austin office at 512.328.8900.