12/12/2024
Did you know that and can cause issues such as and/or pain?
So what exactly is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that involves inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, connecting your heel bone to your toes. This tissue helps support the arch of your foot and absorbs shock when you walk.
💥The most common symptom is sharp, stabbing pain in the heel, although it can also extend along the bottom of the foot. This pain is typically worst with the first steps in the morning or after long periods of sitting or standing.
Menopause can have several effects on the foot fascia, particularly due to the hormonal changes that occur during this period. Here’s how menopause may impact the foot fascia:
1. Decreased Oestrogen Levels:
• Impact on Collagen: Oestrogen plays a significant role in maintaining collagen production, which is crucial for the elasticity and strength of connective tissues, including the fascia. During menopause, oestrogen levels drop, leading to reduced collagen production. This reduction can cause the fascia to become less elastic and more prone to stiffness or injury.
• Plantar Fasciitis: With less elastic and more fragile fascia, women going through menopause may be at higher risk for conditions like plantar fasciitis, where the thick band of tissue (plantar fascia) that runs along the bottom of the foot becomes inflamed, leading to heel pain.
2. Changes in Foot Structure:
• Loss of Cushioning: Menopause can also lead to changes in body fat distribution, often resulting in the loss of the natural fat pads in the feet. This loss of cushioning can increase pressure on the fascia, exacerbating conditions like plantar fasciitis or causing general foot discomfort.
• Altered Foot Shape: The ligaments in the feet may become more lax due to decreased collagen, potentially leading to a change in foot shape, such as flattening of the arches (fallen arches or flat feet). This can place additional stress on the foot fascia.
3. Bone Density Loss:
• Risk of Stress Fractures: The decrease in bone density associated with menopause can lead to an increased risk of stress fractures in the feet. These fractures can cause compensatory changes in gait, putting extra strain on the foot fascia.
4. Increased Joint Pain and Stiffness:
• Inflammation: Menopause is often associated with increased joint pain and stiffness due to inflammation, which can also affect the joints in the feet. This inflammation can extend to the fascia, leading to pain and discomfort.
Overall, menopause can make the foot fascia more vulnerable to injury and discomfort due to the combined effects of hormonal changes, loss of tissue elasticity, and alterations in foot structure. Maintaining good foot health, wearing supportive footwear, and seeking professional advice from a podiatrist can help manage these changes effectively.
