Preventing and Treating Plantar Fasciitis
WRITTEN BY THIROSHAN CHETTY, DIRECTOR OF TENNIS
A common injury that plagues tennis players is Plantar Fasciitis. This injury affects the plantar fascia, which is the strong tissue under the foot that connects the toes to the heel. It combines with muscles and bones to form the arch of the foot. Plantar fasciitis is an overuse injury at the point where the plantar fascia attaches to the heel. Repetitive micro-ruptures cause degenerative changes of the plantar fascia at the site where it attaches to the bone. If left untreated or treated improperly, the injury can keep tennis players out of the game for several weeks or months.
How to Treat Plantar Fasciitis
Different types of stretching methods can either prevent or help to heal the condition. First, try stretching the foot muscles by kneeling on one knee, with the toes on the floor. For a stronger stretch, grab the toes of the foot with one hand and pull the toes and feet as far backwards as possible.
Another stretch of the long calf muscle involves taking one step forward with the uninjured leg. Keep the knee of the injured leg straight, shift the weight of the back leg to the front leg and press the heel of the back leg firmly into the floor. Rest with your hands on a stationary object. You should feel the stretch high in your calf. Hold the stretch for 15 to 20 seconds and follow this with a rest period of 10 to 20 seconds. Repeat three times.
If you are beginning to feel pain in the arch of your foot, please consult one of your favorite Tennis Professionals at Golden Ocala or your doctor for other methods of prevention and healing. Have a question about tennis or tennis-related injuries? Feel free to contact us using this form or reach out via social media.
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