This blog explains one of the factors that can contribute to the pain of plantar fasciitis, from “Can Acupuncture Conquer Plantar Fasciitis?”.
- Repetitive strain
- In some cases, bony spurs
- Beyond the foot itself, intrinsic muscle weakness in the foot
- Hip instability
- General flexibility issues
- Changes in foot arch height
- History of lumbar disc herniation 🢀
While the connection between lumbar disc herniation and plantar fasciitis is not universally accepted, there are some potential ways one can influence the other:
Nerve Pathway and Pain Signals
- Sciatic Nerve Involvement – A herniated disc in the lower lumbar spine can press on the sciatic nerve, which travels down the leg and branches into the foot. This compression can send pain signals down the nerve pathway, potentially manifesting as plantar fasciitis-like pain in the heel and arch.
- Reflexive Muscle Imbalance – The pain from a herniated disc can trigger involuntary muscle tension in the leg and foot as a protective response. This altered muscle activation can disrupt biomechanics and place additional stress on the plantar fascia, contributing to pain and inflammation.
Postural Changes and Gait
- Compensation for Back Pain – Back pain from a herniated disc can cause individuals to adjust their gait and posture to avoid discomfort. This may involve shifting weight distribution or limping, leading to uneven pressure on the foot and potentially overloading the plantar fascia.
- Reduced Activity Levels – Pain and limitations from a herniated disc can lead to decreased activity levels, which can weaken foot muscles and contribute to decreased arch support. This can put additional strain on the plantar fascia and increase the risk of plantar fasciitis.
Other Considerations
- Individual Variability – Not everyone with a herniated disc develops plantar fasciitis, and the presence of both conditions doesn’t always indicate a direct causal relationship. Other factors like genetics, foot structure, and activity levels can play a role.
- Diagnosis and Treatment – While a history of lumbar disc herniation may be considered during plantar fasciitis diagnosis, it’s crucial to rule out other potential causes and focus on treating the individual pain symptoms effectively.
Managing the Connection
If you have both plantar fasciitis and a history of lumbar disc herniation, remember:
- Seek professional guidance – Both conditions require proper diagnosis and treatment plans tailored to your specific needs. Consult your doctor and possibly a physical therapist or podiatrist.
- Address both areas – Treat both the plantar fasciitis pain and the underlying back issues. This may involve exercises for both the foot and lower back, pain management strategies, and lifestyle modifications.
- Improve overall health – Maintain a healthy weight, stay active within your limitations, and practice good posture to support both your back and feet.
It’s important to remember that the evidence linking lumbar disc herniation and plantar fasciitis is still evolving. Further research is needed to understand the exact mechanisms and their clinical significance. However, by addressing both conditions and taking care of your overall health, you can manage both pains effectively and improve your quality of life.
Reference
“Histochemical Changes in the Multifidus Muscle in Patients With Lumbar Intervertebral Disc Herniation” https://journals.lww.com/spinejournal/abstract/2001/03150/histochemical_changes_in_the_multifidus_muscle_in.12.aspx
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DISCLAIMER – Link to the Whole Statement
While this blog offers helpful information, it’s not a substitute for medical advice. As an individual’s health concerns are unique and require professional guidance, do not rely solely on online information for self-diagnosis or treatment. If you have health concerns, always consult a healthcare professional for personalized diagnosis and treatment.
