Pickleball is a sporting activity that dates back 50 years. It can be compared to tennis and badminton, and the feet can often become injured. Plantar fasciitis is an injury that commonly affects pickleball players. It is defined as an inflammation of the plantar fascia, which is found on the sole of the foot. It connects the heel to the toes, and can become inflamed from straining, which can happen from overuse. This sport is played on outdoor asphalt surfaces, and can be extremely demanding on the feet. Many people enjoy playing pickleball for several hours in a row, and may find they are limping off of the court. Effective prevention methods can include wearing shoes that fit correctly, and limiting the play time for this sport. Having an abnormal foot structure, such as flat feet or high arches, may contribute to developing plantar fasciitis. People who enjoy playing pickleball that have these existing foot conditions may benefit from wearing custom-made orthotics. If you would like to have more information about how to protect your feet while playing pickleball, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can offer you additional prevention methods.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists from Princeton Foot & Ankle Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Princeton, and West Windsor, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.