Heel Spur or Plantar Fasciitis
Causes of Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis, often mistakenly referred to as a heel spur, is an inflammation of the plantar fascia—a thick band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes. This condition is typically caused by prolonged strain on the feet, excessive weight, inappropriate footwear, or prolonged standing. In some cases, there is an accumulation of calcium salts at the point where the fascia attaches to the bone, leading to the formation of bony outgrowths known as heel spurs.
Methods and Treatment Approaches
Leech Therapy : Leech therapy, or hirudotherapy, is effective method for treating plantar fasciitis, as the saliva of leeches contains substances that have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. This helps reduce pain and inflammation in the heel area.
Physical Therapy : Physical therapy methods such as laser therapy and stretching are aimed at reducing inflammation and improving the mobility of the plantar fascia. It is particularly important to include exercises that stretch the calf muscles, as their tension can exacerbate the condition of the plantar fascia.
Lifestyle Changes : It is recommended to adjust lifestyle factors, including choosing comfortable footwear with good foot support, weight management, and avoiding prolonged stress on the feet. It is important to provide sufficient rest for the feet and to use orthotic insoles.
Prevention and the Importance of a Comprehensive Approach
Preventing plantar fasciitis includes maintaining a healthy weight, using footwear with adequate cushioning and support, and regular exercises to strengthen the foot and leg muscles. It is also beneficial to avoid long periods of standing and to choose sports with minimal impact on the feet, such as swimming or cycling.
The Necessity of Kidney Treatment
A key aspect of treating and preventing plantar fasciitis, especially when associated with the deposition of calcium salts, is maintaining kidney function. Since the kidneys play a crucial role in removing excess calcium salts from the body, inadequate kidney function can contribute to the accumulation of these salts and the formation of heel spurs. A course of cleansing and supporting kidney function is recommended, which may include a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, increased intake of clean water.
Conclusion
We successfully managed the heel spur issue! My husband was scheduled for surgery, but we chose to take our own path. We conducted X-rays before and after the treatment, which confirmed the complete resolution of the spur, leaving the doctors puzzled as to what had happened—they didn't even ask where it had gone! Our approach included working on drainage points on the foot, specifically the kidney zones on the leg, and addressing purine metabolism. The cause of the spur was also linked to the atrophy/weakening of the soleus muscle, so we incorporated specific exercises. The choice of footwear also played a crucial role—definitely no flip-flops!
A comprehensive approach to treating plantar fasciitis, combining physical therapy, hirudotherapy, lifestyle adjustments, and kidney care, can significantly improve patients' quality of life, reduce symptoms, and promote rapid recovery