Plantar Fasciitis Ayurvedic Treatment

Inflammation of the plantar fascia (the thick band of tissue at the sole passing from heel to toes) is known as plantar fasciitis. It is the common cause of heel pain.

Plantar Fasciitis Signs and Symptoms

It causes heel pain especially when step out from the bed in the morning. As the person starts to move, the pain gradually decreases. The heel again starts to pain on long standing or walking after a period of rest.

Plantar Fasciitis Ayurvedic Analysis

Vatakantaka is a type of vatavyadhi characterised by pain on heels.

Plantar Fasciitis Causative Factors (Ayurveda)

Walking on uneven surfaces and fatigue on heels are the special causes of Vatakantaka. Other factors that cause aggravation of vata (eg: exposure to cold surfaces) can also lead to this condition.

Possible Complications of Plantar Fasciitis Disease

Untreated Vatakantaka will result in severe pain and walking disabilities.

Other systemic diseases and precautions to be taken

Other arthritic conditions, obesity, diabetes etc may be associated with Vatakantaka. Manage these health problems along with treatment of Vatakantaka.

Plantar Fasciitis Disease Management with Ayurveda Treatment

Internal medicines, procedures like agnikarma (cauterisation), raktamoksha (blood-letting), lepana (external application of pasted medicines) or abhyanga (oil application) are enough if there is no associated disease. Otherwise, treat the co-morbidities accordingly.

Diet

Reduce the intake of spicy/ very hot or cold/ dry food. Include more whole grains, vegetables, sweet fruits and milk in diet.

Exercise

Regular exercise should be done. Wear proper shoes while doing exercise.

Plantar Fasciitis Preventive Aspects in Ayurveda

Use comfortable footwears. Maintain healthy body weight. Avoid walking or running on uneven roads. Exercise regularly. Daily oil massage is recommended all over the body, especially at the soles. Reduce the intake of spicy/ very hot or cold food. Drink more water.

Importance of Diet

Right diet enhances speedy recovery. Consuming food items that further vitiate vata will worsen the condition.

Lifestyle

Those having plantar fasciitis, should wear proper footwear. Wear chappals indoors. Exercise daily. Maintain healthy body weight. Apply suitable oil over the soles over-night and before bath.