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Postural Distortions & Massage 
Part 5 of my new series!
In this series, I will attempt to describe some of the common problems that could be helped through massage therapy. If you are afflicted with any of these, massage could be used on it's own or along with your doctor's administrations. Just be aware that some of these problems may take some time to achieve results.
Plantar Fasciitis:
Let me first say that this issue is more about prevention and other possible causes of pain that may mimic this painful condition. Once you have the inflammation of the plantar fascia - massage will not help as much as rest, immobilization and anti-inflammatory drugs. That said there are conditions in the calf that could contribute to the inflammatory response as well as mimic the pain felt on the bottom of the foot. Symptoms of plantar Fasciitis include:
- Pain on the bottom of the foot - typically located in the center.
- Pain is most acute in the morning and decreases after the first 10 to 12 steps.
- Pain returns toward the end of the day and after certain sports activities.
Many of the calf muscles can develop trigger points that refer pain to the middle, bottom of the foot. Sometimes nightly calf cramps will accompany the trigger point conditions.
Chronic tightening of this muscle group can be the main contributor to plantar fasciitis. The folowing activities contribute to chronic tightening of the calf muscles:
- Wearing high heeled shoes daily.
- Step arobics and other activities that involve an "upward" step motion. (for example - climbing ladders all day)
- Running up sttep slopes or jogging in soft sand.
Basically, keeping the foot and lower leg stretched and flexible will help prevent this condition.
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