Peyton Manning partially tore the plantar fascia in his left foot, which caused him difficulty walking.
Many people that have suffered the same injury say that playing with a partial tear is more painful than playing with a complete tear.
He had been suffering from plantar fasciitis for some time this season but aggravated it against Indianapolis causing the partial tear.
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common foot conditions among athletes and regular Joes alike.
It can cause a stabbing like pain in your heel, or the bottom of your foot when you walk. The pain is usually worse first thing in the morning.
It commonly subsides once you get going, but it can get worse after extended periods of standing or when getting up after sitting.
It is inflammation of the band of tissue that connects the heel to the base of each toe and supports the arch.
The plantar fascia is stretched when you push off with your toes.
It can become tight and inflamed and if chronic it can create an outgrowth of the heel bone known as a “spur”.
The spur is not usually the problem, but is a sign of the real problem which is tension or tightness in the plantar fascia.
In cases of long standing inflammation or improper treatment the plantar fascia can become weakened and rupture or “tear”.
Plantar fasciitis is a very treatable condition and the amount of time it takes to resolve the condition is directly proportional to how soon after onset it is treated.
Initially plantar fasciitis needs proper support with custom molded orthotics, stretching exercises to relieve tension, and treatment of the inflammation with oral steroidal or non-steroidal medications.
If the pain is not relieved in several weeks then injections, physical therapy, or high power therapeutic laser treatments may be started.
It should be noted that plantar fasciitis is a chronic condition and will need to be treated continuously.
Once a pain-free state has been achieved, it can be maintained by continuing to wear and update the custom molded orthotics.
Tearing of the plantar fascia is not uncommon and can be the result of a sudden trauma, long term stress, or over medication with cortisone injections which can weaken the fibers.
Treatment consists of immobilizing the affected foot, reduction of pressure and inflammation, and allowing the fibers time to heal.
Physical therapy may be needed to prevent extensive scar tissue and adhesions from forming.
Full recovery is expected, but does not follow a specific timeline. It will ultimately depend on the patient’s ability to follow instructions and rest the foot as directed.
A plantar fascia tear will not keep Peyton Manning permanently, but how long he will be out is anyone’s guess.
If you are suffering from heel pain and think you may have plantar fasciitis, give us a call today at 301-937-5666 or simply fill out the form on the top right of this page to schedule your appointment.
Our podiatrist have extensive experience properly diagnosing and treating your foot pain to get you back on your feet, pain free, as quickly as possible.
