What’s the Connection?

As women approach menopause, they often experience a variety of physical changes, many of which are well-known. 

However, one lesser-known but increasingly recognized symptom is foot pain, particularly caused by conditions like plantar fasciitis. If you're a woman going through menopause and have been experiencing heel pain, you’re not alone. Let’s explore the connection between plantar fasciitis and menopause and what you can do to manage it.

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain, characterized by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue running across the bottom of your foot and connecting your heel to your toes. The pain usually feels sharp, particularly first thing in the morning or after long periods of sitting.

How Does Menopause Play a Role?

During menopause, your body undergoes significant hormonal shifts, primarily the decline of estrogen. Estrogen is more than just a reproductive hormone—it plays a crucial role in maintaining joint and ligament health. With the drop in estrogen, your connective tissues, including the plantar fascia, can lose some of their elasticity and strength, making them more prone to strain and injury. Here's how menopause increases the risk of plantar fasciitis:

1. Hormonal Changes: Estrogen helps keep your muscles and ligaments flexible. With reduced estrogen levels during menopause, the plantar fascia may become stiffer and more susceptible to microtears, leading to pain and inflammation.

2. Weight Gain: It’s common for women to gain weight during menopause due to changes in metabolism. Even a few extra pounds can put increased pressure on your feet, straining the plantar fascia and contributing to the development of plantar fasciitis.

3. Reduced Bone Density: Menopause can lead to decreased bone density, which increases the likelihood of stress fractures or other conditions that can exacerbate foot pain. A weakened foot structure may lead to biomechanical changes that place extra stress on the plantar fascia.

4. Increased Inflammation: As women age, systemic inflammation can become more prevalent, making it harder for tissues like the plantar fascia to heal after minor damage.

Symptoms to Watch For

The hallmark symptom of plantar fasciitis is a sharp, stabbing pain in the bottom of the foot, usually near the heel. This pain is often worse:

• Upon waking and taking the first few steps in the morning

• After prolonged sitting or inactivity

• Following long periods of standing or walking

For menopausal women, this foot pain may seem sudden and can coincide with other common joint or muscle aches that occur during menopause.

Managing Plantar Fasciitis During Menopause

If you're experiencing plantar fasciitis symptoms during menopause, there are several treatment options available to alleviate the pain and promote healing. Here are some ways you can manage the condition:

1. Rest and Ice: Giving your foot adequate rest and applying ice to the affected area can relieve pain.

2. Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: We may prescribe strengthening and stability exercises to help ensure your lower body is supporting you through your daily movements. Stretching of the calf muscles and the plantar fascia can help improve flexibility and reduce strain. Incorporating foot-strengthening exercises can also support proper arch function.

3. Supportive Footwear and custom orthotics: Wearing shoes with good arch support and cushioned soles can make a big difference. Custom orthotics can provide additional support to the arch and heel, reducing strain on the plantar fascia.

4. Maintain a Healthy Weight: If weight gain during menopause has contributed to foot pain, focusing on maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the stress placed on your feet and lower your risk of plantar fasciitis.

5. Shockwave Therapy: We offer advanced treatments such as shockwave therapy at South Dublin Podiatry to reduce inflammation and promote healing.

When to See a Podiatrist

If you’re a woman going through menopause and struggling with persistent foot pain, it’s important to seek professional help. A podiatrist can assess your foot structure, provide gait analysis, review your symptoms, and recommend a personalised treatment plan that targets the root cause of your pain.

Plantar fasciitis can be managed effectively with the right approach, but untreated, it can worsen over time. By addressing the issue early, you can avoid prolonged discomfort and improve your overall quality of life.

Conclusion

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that can be exacerbated during menopause. If you're experiencing heel pain, don’t brush it off as just another symptom of aging. A podiatrist can help you find relief and ensure that your feet stay healthy and pain-free throughout this life stage.

At South Dublin Podiatry, we understand the unique challenges that come with menopause and are here to provide expert care for your foot health. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get back on your feet—pain-free!

Why not have a read of our blog on Orthotics for Plantar Fasciitis for some more information.

Call Us Now On:  📞01 9012009

or

Fill Out The Form Below And Request A Call From Our Team