5 Ways to Alleviate Pain From Plantar Fasciitis in the Foot Naturally
Being a Medical Device Sales rep in NYC for Podiatrists I have seen and heard all things encompassing feet. Rarely do we speak to Podiatrists about natural remedies. That’s just not in our “code of ethics.” But my interest in holistic healing couldn’t stop me from having these conversations. A lot of doctors shy away from these taboo topics but here are a few remedies I did get out of them.
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that connects your heel bone to your toes and supports the arch of your foot, becomes irritated and inflamed. The plantar fascia acts like a shock-absorbing bowstring, supporting the arch in your foot. It typically occurs from overuse or strain and older people as the fascia tends to lose elasticity and is more prone to injury.
The most common symptom of plantar fasciitis is pain in the heel, especially with the first steps in the morning or after periods of rest. The pain may also be more pronounced after long periods of standing or physical activity.
Remedies
What we want to do is promote blood flow and oxygen to the painful area. Castor Oil with Cayenne Pepper will do just that. Grab a washcloth soak it in hot water and squeeze excess out. Sprinkle on some pepper and pour castor oil on that sucker. Wrap your foot up with a plastic bag and leave on for an hour. A bonus is to apply a heating pad!
This simple way will alleviate pain fast. Grab a frozen water bottle and roll your foot over it back and forth. Do this as often as possible and you’ll see results within a few days. Couple this with consistent stretching with your leg out straight and toes drawn back towards you (forming an L) and you are GOLDEN!
Turmeric is considered beneficial for inflammation on the skin due to its active compound, curcumin, which possesses potent anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation is the body’s natural response to injury or irritation, and it often involves a cascade of immune responses. That being said a Tumeric paste is a solution for an achy tendon in the body.
Turmeric Paste:
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup turmeric powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper (to enhance absorption of curcumin)
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions:
- Mix turmeric powder and black pepper in a bowl.
- Add water gradually while stirring to form a thick paste.
- Apply the paste to the affected area and leave it on for 20-30 minutes.
- Rinse off with warm water.
Eliminating certain foods can contribute to the alleviation of plantar fasciitis by reducing inflammation and promoting overall foot health. Dairy and sugar are highly inflammatory so I urge you to ween off of these in order to heal your foot. A diet rich in anti-inflammatory compounds, such as omega-3 fatty acids found in fatty fish, antioxidants from fruits and vegetables, and turmeric, can help modulate the inflammatory response in the body. Additionally, maintaining a healthy weight through a nutrient-dense diet can reduce the strain on the plantar fascia, aiding in the recovery process. Adequate hydration is also crucial for tissue elasticity. Including foods rich in essential nutrients like calcium, magnesium, and vitamin C, which support bone and connective tissue health, can further contribute to a holistic dietary approach in managing and potentially eliminating plantar fasciitis. I personally love having a tumeric latte every night and wakeup refreshed. In a small pot I add milk, tumeric, nutmeg, black pepper, honey and cinnamon and every sip feels like a cozy hug!
