Medically Reviewed by Dr. Rachel N. Verville
November 11, 2019
Plantar fasciitis is a foot condition that occurs when tiny rips and tears are made in the plantar fascia ligament – which runs across the bottom of your foot – over time. Many Frisco residents with this condition know that the discomfort associated with this injury is often worse when they first step out of bed after a long night’s sleep. But some aren’t aware that standing on your feet for a long period of time – or walking for a long time period – can also make the discomfort worse, especially if you’re standing on a hard, unnatural surface.
Standing and Walking for a Long Time Period Makes Plantar Fasciitis Symptoms Worse
Frisco plantar fasciitis patients with desk jobs often find relief from the discomfort this condition brings because they spend so much time sitting down. While they may feel an increased sensation of discomfort when they rise from the desks, reducing the amount of trips out of their office can often help make their workdays more comfortable.
However, many Frisco residents don’t have the luxury of having a desk job. In fact, there are several local professionals whose plantar fasciitis symptoms are worse because they have to stand on their feet for long periods of time or walk for long periods of time. These professionals include:
- Teachers
- Retail workers
- Waiters and waitresses
- Security guards
- Military service members
Basically, the more you’re on your feet, whether stationary or walking, the more likely your symptoms of discomfort are going to be magnified.
The Surface You’re Standing or Walking on Makes a Difference in Your Level of Discomfort, Too
Many Frisco runners know that running on unnatural, hard surfaces such as asphalt or concrete is bad for your knees. Well, when it comes to minimizing plantar fasciitis symptoms, you want to avoid hard, unnatural surfaces, too.
Generally speaking, if you’re going to be on your feet for a long period of time, the harder the surface you’re standing or walking on, the more discomfort you’ll be feeling. If you must be on your feet, try to stand or walk on natural surfaces such as dirt or grass if at all possible. And, regardless of the surface that you’re standing on, make sure you’re wearing shoes in good condition (meaning, they’re not worn out) that also provide plenty of heel and arch support to your feet.
Easing Symptoms for Those Who Must Be On Their Feet
If your job requires you to be on your feet all day long, here are some tips for easing the discomfort you feel after a long day’s work:
- Sit down whenever possible, and try to arrange with your boss for you to work in a seated position if that is an option for your job
- Take breaks from standing to perform the stretches that Dr. Verville has instructed you to do as part of your rehab process
- Wear night splints when you sleep, which many patients report help to ease the discomfort they feel throughout the day
When in Doubt, Contact Frisco Podiatrist Dr. Verville!
If you have any questions about your plantar fascia injury, and how you can best adjust your workday schedule to provide yourself with the most amount of comfort possible, schedule a visit with Dr. Verville at RNV Podiatry. She can be reached at (214) 385-8822
