plantar fascia

[danza amante]

Hi, I'm Kris,

I have "plantar fascia," it's something to do with the tendons on the bottom of my foot being ripped I think . It always feels tight, and when I point or flex my foot, there's a sharp pain that only lasts a second. Some friends from my studio say its common with dancers, so I was wondering if anyone knew how to help it? Thanks

[Mel Johnson]

Hi Kris and welcome to Ballet Talk for Dancers. Everybody with feet has plantar fascia. The name just describes any connective tissues on the sole of the foot. If they become inflamed, then that's plantar fasciitis. You will need a trip to the doctor to identify which particular fascia are causing the trouble, and then provide treatment. In the meantime, stay hydrated, and maybe even consider a multiple vitamin. Over the counter analgesics (Tylenol, Ibuprofen, and so on) may help, too.

 

If the pain is not long-lasting, you may not have fasciitis at all, and just continue. This is one of the pains you can work through. As you get stronger and more flexible, the pain will stop.

[mini_tutu9715]

I have plantar fasciatus and what works well for me is every morning doing foot stretches. If my tendons start to hurt, before class I take Advil or IbuProfin and after class icing my foot and massaging it too.