Fasciitis

Fasciitis is the inflammation of the fascia, a connective tissue structure that extends throughout the body and whose function is to provide support, protection, and shape to different structures of the organism. It is the most common pathology of connective tissue and one of the main causes of musculoskeletal pain.

The causes of fasciitis are diverse and can occur after a single or repetitive trauma, due to an infection, or as a consequence of a generalized autoimmune inflammation of the connective tissue. There are various forms of presentation, with the most common being plantar fasciitis and palmar fasciitis.

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain caused by inflammation of a band of tissue that runs across the sole of the foot. Palmar fasciitis originates from inflammation of the fascia in the hand. The risk factors associated with these two forms of fasciitis are as follows:

• Age: it is more common between the ages of 40 and 60.
• Certain types of exercises that put pressure on the area.
• In the case of plantar fasciitis, flat feet, high arches, or an atypical walking pattern can increase tension in the plantar fascia.
• Obesity.
• Certain professions, such as those involving the use of vibrating machinery or prolonged standing.

Plantar fasciitis causes a stabbing pain in the sole of the foot, near the heel, with more intense pain upon waking up or standing for long periods. In the case of palmar fasciitis, pain may also appear, but the most typical sign is the difficulty in fully extending the fingers of the hand.

For the prevention of plantar fasciitis, there are certain recommendations that can help, such as wearing appropriate shoes, considering the use of insoles if necessary, losing weight if necessary, avoiding impact sports, or regularly stretching the area. On the other hand, the risk of palmar fasciitis can be reduced by avoiding the handling of vibrating machinery, keeping possible inflammatory diseases under control, or regularly practicing stretching exercises.