Nebulizers available today are made by many companies including Omron, DeVilbiss, Respironics, EVO, Agilent, Allied, etc. Some of the newer devices do not need compressed gas but use vibration or ultrasonication to breakup liquid medicine into a mist.
Nebulizers may look intricate in design but are fairly simple to use. To use a nebulizer one applies liquid medication in the plastic container cup. The unit is then attached to an air supply. The gushing air rotates the device in the nebulizer cup and converts the liquid into a fine mist. The mist is then inhaled via a mask. Once the nebulizer is turned on, one should take slow breaths and hold breathing for 1-3 seconds before exhaling. Once the nebulizer is used, it should be cleaned in running water at least once a week. The device should be allowed to air dry.
With nebulizer therapy, the individual just needs to breathe regularly. There is no need to maintain hand and breathing coordination like when using an inhaler. With each breath, the vapor is inhaled. Each nebulizer treatment session may last anywhere from 5-20 minutes.
Today, many medications for the lung can be delivered by nebulizers. However, nebulizers are not meant for all individuals. Some older machines are large and transportation can be difficult. Most individuals use nebulizer to treat acute asthma but switch back to inhalers when the disorder is more stable. Besides treatment of severe asthma, nebulizers are an excellent method of administering bronchodilator medications in young children and the elderly who have difficulty with use of inhalers.
Nebulizer medications and nebulizer machine require a physician’s prescription. All patients should remember that nebulizers are not a substitute for inhalers but a complimentary form of treatment.
All nebulizers have to be cleaned regularly to ensure that the tubings are free from residual medication and secretions. Use of warm water and a cloth is sufficient to clean these devices.
For more information on nebulizers, please visit www.medicalsuppliesandmore.com
Thursday, July 30, 2009
All about Nebulizers: Part 1
Millions of individuals have asthma and chronic lung disorders for which they require use of metered dose inhaler medications. In many cases, these medications are best delivered to the lung via use of a nebulizer. A nebulizer is a compressed air appliance that changes liquid asthma medicine into a fine mist that one can easily inhale. Nebulizers are ideal for children with asthma and for individuals who have difficultly using metered dose inhalers. There are many designs of nebulizers but they all function in a similar fashion.
Nebulizers help deliver the bronchodilator drugs deep down in to the lower part of lung where oxygenation takes place. Nebulizers also help individuals who are unable to take deep breaths because of chest pain, emphysema, or COPD.
With most nebulizers, one needs a source of compressed air/oxygen which when released causes liquid medicine to turn into a fine mist. The fine mist is then more easily inhaled by the individual.
In the past, nebulizers were large and only used in health care facilities. Today, nebulizers are small compact portable devices that can be used in the home. Nebulizers are also frequently used in emergency rooms to treat acute cases of asthma or severe cases of wheezing.
In the hospital setting, nebulizer therapy is administered by respiratory therapists or nurses. Today, nebulizers have been simplified and can be easily used at home.
Nebulizers help deliver the bronchodilator drugs deep down in to the lower part of lung where oxygenation takes place. Nebulizers also help individuals who are unable to take deep breaths because of chest pain, emphysema, or COPD.
With most nebulizers, one needs a source of compressed air/oxygen which when released causes liquid medicine to turn into a fine mist. The fine mist is then more easily inhaled by the individual.
In the past, nebulizers were large and only used in health care facilities. Today, nebulizers are small compact portable devices that can be used in the home. Nebulizers are also frequently used in emergency rooms to treat acute cases of asthma or severe cases of wheezing.
In the hospital setting, nebulizer therapy is administered by respiratory therapists or nurses. Today, nebulizers have been simplified and can be easily used at home.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Diabetic socks- which type should one buy? Part 2
Diabetics should buy socks made from cotton, as this fabric can help absorb moisture. Nylon socks and other fabrics do not absorb moisture and can increase humidity in the foot, thus making the skin more prone to breakdown. One should also not buy socks with a high binding rim, as this can prevent blood from reaching the toes.
The socks should be seamless. Socks with seams generally have the ability to limit blood supply. While this may not be a big deal for a non-diabetic, it is very important for a diabetic.
Finally, diabetics should select socks with a thick fabric – this can help protect the soles and toes from any external trauma or friction that occurs while wearing shoes. Thick fabric socks also promote even blood circulation and decrease chances of blister formation.
Several brands of diabetic socks also come with a reinforced heel for added protection. In addition, some socks also have an antimicrobial fabric that will decrease chance of an infection. If you have an open ulcer or a wound, buy socks which are light colored so that you can observed wound drainage.
Diabetic socks are available in all styles, colors, and sizes. Many are elegantly designed and can be worn both at home and work. While many diabetic socks can be bought online, it is important to try a pair at a store. This is to ensure that the socks are comfortable and fit right.
Diabetic socks are relatively cheap. A decent pair of diabetic socks starts at around $5 and above. Of course, higher graded pressure socks are more expensive. To ensure that your socks maintain elasticity and shape, always hand wash your socks and air-dry them.
For diabetics, good foot care is mandatory if complications are to be avoided. Buying a good pair of diabetic socks is only one aspect of preventive care. Other aspects of preventive control include maintaining blood sugars under control, exercising on a regular basis and avoid smoking
For more on diabetic socks, please visit www.medicalsuppliesandmore.com
The socks should be seamless. Socks with seams generally have the ability to limit blood supply. While this may not be a big deal for a non-diabetic, it is very important for a diabetic.
Finally, diabetics should select socks with a thick fabric – this can help protect the soles and toes from any external trauma or friction that occurs while wearing shoes. Thick fabric socks also promote even blood circulation and decrease chances of blister formation.
Several brands of diabetic socks also come with a reinforced heel for added protection. In addition, some socks also have an antimicrobial fabric that will decrease chance of an infection. If you have an open ulcer or a wound, buy socks which are light colored so that you can observed wound drainage.
Diabetic socks are available in all styles, colors, and sizes. Many are elegantly designed and can be worn both at home and work. While many diabetic socks can be bought online, it is important to try a pair at a store. This is to ensure that the socks are comfortable and fit right.
Diabetic socks are relatively cheap. A decent pair of diabetic socks starts at around $5 and above. Of course, higher graded pressure socks are more expensive. To ensure that your socks maintain elasticity and shape, always hand wash your socks and air-dry them.
For diabetics, good foot care is mandatory if complications are to be avoided. Buying a good pair of diabetic socks is only one aspect of preventive care. Other aspects of preventive control include maintaining blood sugars under control, exercising on a regular basis and avoid smoking
For more on diabetic socks, please visit www.medicalsuppliesandmore.com
Diabetic socks- which type should one buy? Part 1
Diabetes is a dreadful disease and associated with numerous complications. One of the more serious complications of diabetes is development of infections of the toe and foot. The chief reasons why diabetics are more prone to foot infections is due to a decreased blood supply and loss of pain sensation to the foot. The inability to sense pain often leads to deformity and damage to the foot. Over time, the majority of diabetics end up with amputations of their toes or foot.
To prevent infections and trauma to their feet, all diabetics should take preventive steps. Asides from good hygiene, all diabetics should take excellent care of their feet, wear protective shoes and proper socks.
There are several styles and designs of socks that are geared towards diabetic patients. The socks come in many colors, fabrics, size, color, and brands. Some socks are worn just above the ankle and others can be worn as high as the knee. The majority of these socks come with stretchable fabric and have graded pressure, which is highest at the toe. These graded pressure socks help move blood back to the heart and prevent swelling of the foot.
Prior to buying any sock, all diabetics should fully understand that they have decreased blood supply to their feet. Thus, it is vital not to buy socks with high-pressure gradients, as this only further limits blood flow to the feet. Socks with high graduated pressure are generally worn by individuals who have varicose veins or those who persistently develop swelling in their feet. For most diabetics, socks with high-pressure gradients are not indicated. Therefore, one should select a pair of socks with a minimal pressure gradient of 5-7 mmHg. Diabetics who do have swelling of their feet may select socks with high-pressure gradients.
for more on diabetic socks, please visit www.medicalsuppliesandmore.com
To prevent infections and trauma to their feet, all diabetics should take preventive steps. Asides from good hygiene, all diabetics should take excellent care of their feet, wear protective shoes and proper socks.
There are several styles and designs of socks that are geared towards diabetic patients. The socks come in many colors, fabrics, size, color, and brands. Some socks are worn just above the ankle and others can be worn as high as the knee. The majority of these socks come with stretchable fabric and have graded pressure, which is highest at the toe. These graded pressure socks help move blood back to the heart and prevent swelling of the foot.
Prior to buying any sock, all diabetics should fully understand that they have decreased blood supply to their feet. Thus, it is vital not to buy socks with high-pressure gradients, as this only further limits blood flow to the feet. Socks with high graduated pressure are generally worn by individuals who have varicose veins or those who persistently develop swelling in their feet. For most diabetics, socks with high-pressure gradients are not indicated. Therefore, one should select a pair of socks with a minimal pressure gradient of 5-7 mmHg. Diabetics who do have swelling of their feet may select socks with high-pressure gradients.
for more on diabetic socks, please visit www.medicalsuppliesandmore.com
Friday, July 17, 2009
carpal tunnel syndrome: Part 2
The diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome is usually straightforward but the treatment options are often confusing. The diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome requires a couple of tests to determine where exactly the nerve is being compressed. Once the diagnosis has been confirmed, you will be referred to a surgeon, neurologist, or physical therapist.
The aim of all treatments is to relieve symptoms and restore normal hand and finger function.
When carpal tunnel syndrome is mild, the best treatment is to avoid performing tasks that aggravate symptoms. This includes taking break from repetitive work and applying cold ice packs to reduce swelling on the wrist. The other options include wrist splints, pain medications, injection of corticosteroids and surgery.
Wrist splints when worn regularly can help relieve the pain, especially at night. Wrist splints are best suited for individuals with mild to moderate symptoms. However, most individuals need some type of pain medication.
When the symptoms are severe and pain is continuous, surgery may be the only other option. Surgery can be performed with a small incision and a camera. All consumers with carpal tunnel syndrome should understand that surgery is never the first choice treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome. Further surgery for carpal tunnel syndrome is always elective and should never be performed under an emergency basis. Surgery is generally recommended when all other non-surgical interventions have failed to improve symptoms. The consumer has to understand that there are a fair number of individuals with carpal tunnel syndrome who undergo surgery and still have residual pain. Finally, surgery has its own share of complications.
for more on wrist splints and other medical supplies, please visit www.medicalsuppliesandmore.
com
The aim of all treatments is to relieve symptoms and restore normal hand and finger function.
When carpal tunnel syndrome is mild, the best treatment is to avoid performing tasks that aggravate symptoms. This includes taking break from repetitive work and applying cold ice packs to reduce swelling on the wrist. The other options include wrist splints, pain medications, injection of corticosteroids and surgery.
Wrist splints when worn regularly can help relieve the pain, especially at night. Wrist splints are best suited for individuals with mild to moderate symptoms. However, most individuals need some type of pain medication.
When the symptoms are severe and pain is continuous, surgery may be the only other option. Surgery can be performed with a small incision and a camera. All consumers with carpal tunnel syndrome should understand that surgery is never the first choice treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome. Further surgery for carpal tunnel syndrome is always elective and should never be performed under an emergency basis. Surgery is generally recommended when all other non-surgical interventions have failed to improve symptoms. The consumer has to understand that there are a fair number of individuals with carpal tunnel syndrome who undergo surgery and still have residual pain. Finally, surgery has its own share of complications.
for more on wrist splints and other medical supplies, please visit www.medicalsuppliesandmore.
com
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome 101
Many individuals in North America have been diagnosed with Carpal tunnel syndrome. One of the chief reasons why this syndrome is being diagnosed more frequently is partly related to our lifestyle and occupation
Carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway on the front of the wrist joint. In this narrow tunnel passes an important nerve to the hands and fingers. In some individuals, this tunnel narrows and compresses the nerve. When the nerve is compressed, the individual will company of numbness, pain, and tingling in the middle three fingers. In the majority of cases, only one hand is affected, but in some unlucky individual, both hands can be affected.
The symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome usually include the following:
- tingling or numbness in the middle three fingers is
a common complaint. Individuals usually notice that
when they hold something in the hand, numbness or pain
comes on. Frequently, these individuals shake their
hands to relieve the symptoms
- as the disease progresses, pain radiates to the wrist and arm.
- Individuals who are in an occupation where they perform
repetitive actions with the hand often have more severe pain
- Over time one develop weakness in the hands and a tendency
to drop objects is a frequent occurrence
- when carpal tunnel syndrome has advanced, the majority of
individuals will have breakdown of hand muscles, loss of
hand function and persistent numbness in the middle three fingers.
There are many causes of carpal tunnel syndrome including:
- rheumatoid arthritis
- menopause
- diabetes
- pregnancy
- repetitive use or injury of the wrist
- Any condition which leads to fluid build up and
narrow the tunnel, thus compressing the nerve
For medical supplies, please visit www.medicalsuppliesandmore.com
Carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway on the front of the wrist joint. In this narrow tunnel passes an important nerve to the hands and fingers. In some individuals, this tunnel narrows and compresses the nerve. When the nerve is compressed, the individual will company of numbness, pain, and tingling in the middle three fingers. In the majority of cases, only one hand is affected, but in some unlucky individual, both hands can be affected.
The symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome usually include the following:
- tingling or numbness in the middle three fingers is
a common complaint. Individuals usually notice that
when they hold something in the hand, numbness or pain
comes on. Frequently, these individuals shake their
hands to relieve the symptoms
- as the disease progresses, pain radiates to the wrist and arm.
- Individuals who are in an occupation where they perform
repetitive actions with the hand often have more severe pain
- Over time one develop weakness in the hands and a tendency
to drop objects is a frequent occurrence
- when carpal tunnel syndrome has advanced, the majority of
individuals will have breakdown of hand muscles, loss of
hand function and persistent numbness in the middle three fingers.
There are many causes of carpal tunnel syndrome including:
- rheumatoid arthritis
- menopause
- diabetes
- pregnancy
- repetitive use or injury of the wrist
- Any condition which leads to fluid build up and
narrow the tunnel, thus compressing the nerve
For medical supplies, please visit www.medicalsuppliesandmore.com
Friday, July 10, 2009
Plantar Fasciitis: Part 6
Treating plantar Fasciitis at home
If you want to treat plantar fasciitis, and have very little money, some of the things you can do at home include:
Elevate your legs every time you sit or lie down. Leg elevation can help decrease pain, and tenderness around the heel.
If the pain is acute, apply an ice pack for 20 minutes every 3-4 hours. Get someone to perform a decent foot massage. The pain will quickly disappear. If you maintain physiotherapy, rest, and massage your foot, plantar fasciitis will soon disappear.
If you are always up on your feet or are into a sport where you run or jog, take a break for a few weeks. Let the pain decrease before you restart again
If the pain always comes when you jog or run, change the type of exercise- go swimming, or cycling instead.
There are many relatively cheap arch supports available. These devices can help reduce tension on plantar fascia. There is absolutely no need to see a foot surgeon and buying expensive arch supports is not recommended.
When resting, make it a habit of stretching your ankle and massage your heel. Continue some type of physical therapy that can help you strength muscles of the foot and calf
If you are overweight, try reducing weight. Start walking
Wear comfortable shoes and avoid high heel shoes. Buy shoes that have a decent arch support, can absorb tension, and are comfortable to wear.
Change your shoes every now and then. Worn off shoes or those which are old and ragged cannot help support your arch or cushion your feet. So make an effort to invest a decent pair of shoes.
If you want to treat plantar fasciitis, and have very little money, some of the things you can do at home include:
Elevate your legs every time you sit or lie down. Leg elevation can help decrease pain, and tenderness around the heel.
If the pain is acute, apply an ice pack for 20 minutes every 3-4 hours. Get someone to perform a decent foot massage. The pain will quickly disappear. If you maintain physiotherapy, rest, and massage your foot, plantar fasciitis will soon disappear.
If you are always up on your feet or are into a sport where you run or jog, take a break for a few weeks. Let the pain decrease before you restart again
If the pain always comes when you jog or run, change the type of exercise- go swimming, or cycling instead.
There are many relatively cheap arch supports available. These devices can help reduce tension on plantar fascia. There is absolutely no need to see a foot surgeon and buying expensive arch supports is not recommended.
When resting, make it a habit of stretching your ankle and massage your heel. Continue some type of physical therapy that can help you strength muscles of the foot and calf
If you are overweight, try reducing weight. Start walking
Wear comfortable shoes and avoid high heel shoes. Buy shoes that have a decent arch support, can absorb tension, and are comfortable to wear.
Change your shoes every now and then. Worn off shoes or those which are old and ragged cannot help support your arch or cushion your feet. So make an effort to invest a decent pair of shoes.
Plantar Fasciitis: Part 5
Surgery
Surgery is never the first treatment for plantar fasciitis and if any physician recommends surgery as first line therapy, change your doctor or get a second opinion. Surgery is the last resort. Not only is surgery expensive but it also fails to reliably help the majority of people. Only a small percentage of people need surgery to repair/remove the plantar fascia at the heel bone. It is generally an option only when the pain is severe and all else fails. Side effects include a weakening of the foot arch.
Extracorporeal shock wave therapy involves use of sound waves to promote healing of plantar fascia. The procedure is expensive, and has its own complications. One may develop bruising, swelling, and worse pain. Definitely a treatment that should be avoided in the beginning.
Alternative care
The filed of alternative care is full of charlatans selling nonsensical devices like bracelets, magnets and copper rings. None of these products work and they are a waste of money.
Surgery is never the first treatment for plantar fasciitis and if any physician recommends surgery as first line therapy, change your doctor or get a second opinion. Surgery is the last resort. Not only is surgery expensive but it also fails to reliably help the majority of people. Only a small percentage of people need surgery to repair/remove the plantar fascia at the heel bone. It is generally an option only when the pain is severe and all else fails. Side effects include a weakening of the foot arch.
Extracorporeal shock wave therapy involves use of sound waves to promote healing of plantar fascia. The procedure is expensive, and has its own complications. One may develop bruising, swelling, and worse pain. Definitely a treatment that should be avoided in the beginning.
Alternative care
The filed of alternative care is full of charlatans selling nonsensical devices like bracelets, magnets and copper rings. None of these products work and they are a waste of money.
Plantar Fasciitis: Part 4
Treatment
In almost all individuals, the treatment of plantar fasciitis begins with conservative care. Besides pain control, one may require physical therapy, splints, and proper shoe wear. In the majority of cases, this leads to healing of the disorder in just a few months. There are no magical treatments for plantar fasciitis and most treatments offered on cyberspace are nothing more than a scam.
Drugs
Most people do find relief in pain with use of NSAIDs. These drugs do not cure the condition but do help resolve pain. There are many types of NSAIDS and they all work similarly.
Corticosteroids are also used to treat plantar fasciitis. These potent drugs are used in two ways. Some physicians inject corticosteroids and others use a technique of iontophoresis to help the drug enter skin. Iontophoresis uses low electrical current to help the corticosteroid migrate into the deeper tissues. Corticosteroids do help inflammation and pain but do not work immediately. Further, corticosteroids should not be used more than 2-3 times a year, as they are associated with their own complications. Corticosteroids can soften bone and can even rupture the plantar fascia. At least 30% of individuals fail to respond to corticosteroids. Some physicians use ultrasound to help guide placement of corticosteroids into the heel. Use of ultrasound is not always necessary and adds up cost of the procedure
Additional treatments
Physical therapy can be very helpful for treatment of plantar fasciitis. The therapy can help one increase muscle strength, heal fascial tears, and even stabilize the ankle joint. One can also learn ways to prevent plantar fasciitis with proper footwear and exercise.
Night splints are recommended for individuals who have severe pain at night. Splints can help support the calf and foot. This leads to decreased mobility of the foot, and hence pain is less.
Orthotics is basically getting newer custom shoes or shoe supports for your foot. The field of orthotics has gone way beyond helping people with foot problems. Many of these devices or shoes are exorbitantly expensive and not worth the money. One can get similar shoe support from a physical therapist or an orthopedic surgeon. Foot doctors are definitely not worth the expense. At most, one may need to get a support for the arch. These soles can be bought at any shoe store for 1/20th price instead of a foot doctor.
In almost all individuals, the treatment of plantar fasciitis begins with conservative care. Besides pain control, one may require physical therapy, splints, and proper shoe wear. In the majority of cases, this leads to healing of the disorder in just a few months. There are no magical treatments for plantar fasciitis and most treatments offered on cyberspace are nothing more than a scam.
Drugs
Most people do find relief in pain with use of NSAIDs. These drugs do not cure the condition but do help resolve pain. There are many types of NSAIDS and they all work similarly.
Corticosteroids are also used to treat plantar fasciitis. These potent drugs are used in two ways. Some physicians inject corticosteroids and others use a technique of iontophoresis to help the drug enter skin. Iontophoresis uses low electrical current to help the corticosteroid migrate into the deeper tissues. Corticosteroids do help inflammation and pain but do not work immediately. Further, corticosteroids should not be used more than 2-3 times a year, as they are associated with their own complications. Corticosteroids can soften bone and can even rupture the plantar fascia. At least 30% of individuals fail to respond to corticosteroids. Some physicians use ultrasound to help guide placement of corticosteroids into the heel. Use of ultrasound is not always necessary and adds up cost of the procedure
Additional treatments
Physical therapy can be very helpful for treatment of plantar fasciitis. The therapy can help one increase muscle strength, heal fascial tears, and even stabilize the ankle joint. One can also learn ways to prevent plantar fasciitis with proper footwear and exercise.
Night splints are recommended for individuals who have severe pain at night. Splints can help support the calf and foot. This leads to decreased mobility of the foot, and hence pain is less.
Orthotics is basically getting newer custom shoes or shoe supports for your foot. The field of orthotics has gone way beyond helping people with foot problems. Many of these devices or shoes are exorbitantly expensive and not worth the money. One can get similar shoe support from a physical therapist or an orthopedic surgeon. Foot doctors are definitely not worth the expense. At most, one may need to get a support for the arch. These soles can be bought at any shoe store for 1/20th price instead of a foot doctor.
Plantar fasciitis: Part 4
Progression of Plantar fasciitis
In the beginning, plantar fasciitis may appear to be a nuisance and the pain may be tolerated. However, very quickly the disorder can limit one’s life style. The pain will come on quickly and be constant. Other individuals will find it difficult to walk even a few steps or wear shoes comfortably. Over time, most individuals develop an abnormal gait that places more strain on the back and hips.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of plantar fasciitis is relatively simple. While the diagnosis can be made from the history and clinical presentation, some physicians may order an x ray or an MRI. Sometimes, a bone spur or a pinched nerve can present in a similar fashion.
X rays are done to ensure that there is no bone spur. Previously it was felt that all cases of plantar fasciitis were due to a bone spur. However, many individuals have bone spurs on their heels and have no symptoms. It is believed that in most cases bone spurs are an incidental finding and not a cause of plantar fasciitis.
In the beginning, plantar fasciitis may appear to be a nuisance and the pain may be tolerated. However, very quickly the disorder can limit one’s life style. The pain will come on quickly and be constant. Other individuals will find it difficult to walk even a few steps or wear shoes comfortably. Over time, most individuals develop an abnormal gait that places more strain on the back and hips.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of plantar fasciitis is relatively simple. While the diagnosis can be made from the history and clinical presentation, some physicians may order an x ray or an MRI. Sometimes, a bone spur or a pinched nerve can present in a similar fashion.
X rays are done to ensure that there is no bone spur. Previously it was felt that all cases of plantar fasciitis were due to a bone spur. However, many individuals have bone spurs on their heels and have no symptoms. It is believed that in most cases bone spurs are an incidental finding and not a cause of plantar fasciitis.
Plantar fasciitis: part 3
Risk factors
Plantar fasciitis only develop in certain individuals. Risk factors for plantar fasciitis include:
Age. Plantar fasciitis is most common the age groups 40-60. However, in active athletes and overweight individuals, it is not uncommon to have the disorder in the early 30s.
Gender: Females for some unknown reason are more prone to plantar fasciitis.
Type of exercise is also an important risk factor. Individuals who place a lot of tension or stress on the heel are most prone to the disorder. Marathon runners, track joggers, aerobic dancers, ballet dancers and other individuals who are constantly leaping or jumping are also prone to the disorder.
Misaligned anatomy such as having flat foot or having a high arch can also cause abnormal gait and thus, leads to uneven weight bearing on the heel. This leads to more tension on the plantar fascia and pain.
Individuals who are obese generally are more likely to develop plantar fasciitis simply by virtue of placing more weight or tension on the plantar fascia
Any occupation where one is always standing or has to be upright for prolonged periods also causes plantar fasciitis. Teachers, airhostesses, servers, nurses, and waiters commonly develop this condition. Many of these individuals often develop disabling pain that requires a change in occupation.
Individuals who wear shoes with improper arch support or loose shoes often develop plantar fasciitis. Women who wear high-heeled shoes place a great deal of tension on the plantar fascia and often develop severe heel pain. Today, improper or inadequate shoe wear is the most common cause of plantar fasciitis North American society
Plantar fasciitis only develop in certain individuals. Risk factors for plantar fasciitis include:
Age. Plantar fasciitis is most common the age groups 40-60. However, in active athletes and overweight individuals, it is not uncommon to have the disorder in the early 30s.
Gender: Females for some unknown reason are more prone to plantar fasciitis.
Type of exercise is also an important risk factor. Individuals who place a lot of tension or stress on the heel are most prone to the disorder. Marathon runners, track joggers, aerobic dancers, ballet dancers and other individuals who are constantly leaping or jumping are also prone to the disorder.
Misaligned anatomy such as having flat foot or having a high arch can also cause abnormal gait and thus, leads to uneven weight bearing on the heel. This leads to more tension on the plantar fascia and pain.
Individuals who are obese generally are more likely to develop plantar fasciitis simply by virtue of placing more weight or tension on the plantar fascia
Any occupation where one is always standing or has to be upright for prolonged periods also causes plantar fasciitis. Teachers, airhostesses, servers, nurses, and waiters commonly develop this condition. Many of these individuals often develop disabling pain that requires a change in occupation.
Individuals who wear shoes with improper arch support or loose shoes often develop plantar fasciitis. Women who wear high-heeled shoes place a great deal of tension on the plantar fascia and often develop severe heel pain. Today, improper or inadequate shoe wear is the most common cause of plantar fasciitis North American society
Plantar fasciitis: Part 2
Symptoms
Plantar fasciitis does not develop overnight. In most individuals, the disorder develops gradually over a few months. The condition usually affects only one foot, but rarely both feet may be affected. Once the condition has develop, pain comes on very quickly after a walking a few steps. Frequently, one may feel an odd ache or a sharp burning pain in the heel after prolonged standing or seating. The pain is quite sharp and the heel may feel hot and tender at times. In severe cases, even touching the heel area may be painful. In many cases, the heel pain may radiate along the foot to the arch.
Why does plantar fasciitis develop?
The plantar fascia is a very strong structure and helps support the heel and arch of the foot. It absorbs a great deal of pressure in everyday life. However, on occasions small tears may develop in the fascia and with continued stretching and tension, the fascia does get irritated and becomes inflamed. It is very rare for plantar fascia to completely rupture but the small tears can cause a lot of pain, discomfort, and disability.
Plantar fasciitis does not develop overnight. In most individuals, the disorder develops gradually over a few months. The condition usually affects only one foot, but rarely both feet may be affected. Once the condition has develop, pain comes on very quickly after a walking a few steps. Frequently, one may feel an odd ache or a sharp burning pain in the heel after prolonged standing or seating. The pain is quite sharp and the heel may feel hot and tender at times. In severe cases, even touching the heel area may be painful. In many cases, the heel pain may radiate along the foot to the arch.
Why does plantar fasciitis develop?
The plantar fascia is a very strong structure and helps support the heel and arch of the foot. It absorbs a great deal of pressure in everyday life. However, on occasions small tears may develop in the fascia and with continued stretching and tension, the fascia does get irritated and becomes inflamed. It is very rare for plantar fascia to completely rupture but the small tears can cause a lot of pain, discomfort, and disability.
What is plantar fasciitis? part 1
Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain in North American society. While a lot has been published about plantar fasciitis, the condition is still an enigma and quite difficult to treat. Even though many treatments are available, none is satisfactory.
Plantar fasciitis causes heel pain that can be constant and agonizing. The plantar fascia that connects the heel bone to the toes gets inflamed and can cause moderate to severe pain. During acute episodes, one may have great difficulty wearing shoes or even walking. Often the pain is constant and worse at night.
Once plantar fasciitis occurs, pain is first immediately felt while walking. After taking a few steps one may feel stabbing pain in the heel. The pain usually varies from moderate to severe. The pain only diminishes when one stops walking. However at times, even after a prolonged rest, the pain immediately comes back when one takes a few steps.
Plantar fasciitis can occur in anyone but is especially more common in athletes, obese individuals, pregnant women and those who wear shoes which have inadequate heel support. About 90 percent of people who develop plantar fasciitis generally recover with conservative treatments in just a few months.
Plantar fasciitis causes heel pain that can be constant and agonizing. The plantar fascia that connects the heel bone to the toes gets inflamed and can cause moderate to severe pain. During acute episodes, one may have great difficulty wearing shoes or even walking. Often the pain is constant and worse at night.
Once plantar fasciitis occurs, pain is first immediately felt while walking. After taking a few steps one may feel stabbing pain in the heel. The pain usually varies from moderate to severe. The pain only diminishes when one stops walking. However at times, even after a prolonged rest, the pain immediately comes back when one takes a few steps.
Plantar fasciitis can occur in anyone but is especially more common in athletes, obese individuals, pregnant women and those who wear shoes which have inadequate heel support. About 90 percent of people who develop plantar fasciitis generally recover with conservative treatments in just a few months.
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