Why is Plantar Fasciitis More Common in Summer?

The sky is sunny, flowers are blooming, and the birds are chirping. But with the warmer weather, are you more at risk for plantar fasciitis? Today Dr. Ross Cohen of The Foot & Ankle Center of Maryland discusses why this condition is more prevalent in warmer weather.

When you engage in more outdoor activities, your footwear typically changes with the weather. You find pretty sandals at your local shoe store, wear them for a day, and everything is fine. But suddenly you feel a noticeable ache at the bottom of your foot, and you are not sure what is causing the foot pain.

This pain could be plantar fasciitis, which is the most common type of heel pain. And the warmer weather could be causing that pain.

What is plantar fasciitis?

In simple terms, plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the fascia. It causes a burning pain that usually worsens when you stand up after resting for an extended period. Some patients describe the pain as dull, while others feel a burning or sharp pain. And although symptoms differ from one patient to another, the common causes are the same.

Why is Plantar Fasciitis more common in the summer?

Shoes with improper support: For many of us, as soon as the winter clouds have cleared and the sun is high in the sky, we kick off our winter footwear that provides support and start wearing flimsy flip-flops that’s don’t. We are quick to trade our comfortable shoes that have arch support for summer footwear with little-to-no support. This is the point where you unknowingly invite plantar fasciitis into your life.

Increased activity: Most of us want to be outdoors on a beautiful day. People tend to be more active in spring and summer and that means more walking. Also, you intensify your activity by beginning a new running routine or starting a fitness class. And your new activities require more walking or standing, which places repeated stress on their heels. Any repetitive motion can tear or damage the plantar fascia, resulting in pain and inflammation.

How To Prevent Plantar Fasciitis In The Spring And Summer

One of the best ways to prevent this condition is by wearing shoes that provide arch support, custom orthotics, or over-the-counter arch supports to alleviate some of the pain. In addition to lessening tension on your plantar fascia, they also distribute pressure, and prevent more damage. Also, avoid old or worn shoes that no longer cushion your heel and don’t walk barefoot on hard surfaces!

For more details regarding plantar fasciitis and how you can avoid it this summer, contact the office of Dr. Ross Cohen of The Foot & Ankle Center of Maryland today to schedule a consultation. You can call the office at (410) 761-3501 or request an appointment online.