Plantar Fasciitis and Soccer Players

Author: Matt Couch

Publish Date: 4/29/19

Soccer players sustain all sorts of bodily injuries throughout their careers. Most injuries soccer players suffer from are related to the leg, and more specifically relating to the knee or ankle join. One of the most common injuries both youth and adult soccer players report to a personal trainer, doctor, or physical therapist is plantar fasciitis.

Plantar fasciitis, pain in the sole or heel of the foot, is caused by inflammation in the plantar fascia, a tissue that connects your heel and your toes. Excessive tension on the plantar fascia, from running, jumping, or agility movements can cause micro tears, if the fascia is not allowed proper time to heal it may become inflamed and irritated.

Other causes have to do with the makeup of the individual's body. Flat feet or high arch can be more prone to plantar fasciitis, do to their relative extreme. Your stride pattern can also be a cause. Striking with the heel, or excessive toe walking can put added stress on the plantar fascia.

There is a wide range of treatments for plantar fasciitis, everything from injections to massage. Resting the foot is the best first course of treatment. Get off your feet let them relax and wiggle your toes. Then move to massage, this can be done individually or by a partner or professional. Using custom orthotics or heel cup can help with any abnormalities (flat or high arch) in your foot. If your pain persists, consult a doctor. You could be suffering from something entirely unrelated to the plantar fascia.

Soccer players spend a majority of their time on the front part of their feet, putting a high amount of stress on the plantar fascia. Implementing a massage and mobility regimen on a consistent basis will be a soccer players best prevention against plantar fasciitis.

The information provided in this blog consists of conversations or comments that should not be used as medical advice and is not a substitute for treatment. The views and opinions expressed in this blog should not be considered medical advice. The information provided is updated at the time of the post and the author has the right to revise and/or edit content at anytime.  The information presented on this blog is for informational and entertainment purposes and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider regarding your health and treatment.