The plantar fascia (also called the plantar aponeurosis) is a thick
band of connective tissue on the plantar surface (underside) of the
foot. It originates on the medial tubercle of the calcaneus bone (a
particular landmark on the underside of the heel bone), and continues
beneath the other bones of the foot out towards base of the toes. The
plantar fascia is made up of collagen fibers that run mostly along the
length of the foot, although some move in other directions as well. The
job of the plantar fascia is to support the bones of the arch of the
feet by acting as a tie-rod. From a mechanical perspective, the plantar
fascia supports up to 14% of the load the foot has to bear as we move.
So as you can see, it is one of the most important structures in our
feet!
Ice Massage:
Fill several 3 or 5 ounce paper cups with water and freeze them. When
frozen, remove a cup from the freezer and peel back an inch or so of the
cup, exposing the ice. Using the remaining cup as a handle, massage
the heel and underside of the foot with the ice, in circular motions and
with medium pressure, for 10 to 15 minutes. You will have to continue
to peel the paper cup back from the ice as it melts, and you’ll want a
hand towel to blot the water as it melts, but this is a highly effective
treatment for plantar fascitis.
http://www.sacramentomassagecenter.com
