Pau Gasol, the Los Angeles Lakers’ Forward,
suffered a plantar fascia
rupture on Tuesday night
during the game against Brooklyn. The
plantar fascia is a band of tissue that connects the forefoot to the heel. Injuries
to the plantar fascia are one of the most common ailments of the foot. Plantar fasciitis, a strain of the plantar
fascia, is much more common than a plantar fascial rupture. Ruptures typically
occur when the ball of the foot is forced in an upward direction relative to
the heel. In sports this can occur with any events associated with jumping. It
is also seen in baseball occasionally when a base runner catches the front of
his foot while rounding the bases. It is not uncommon to actually hear an
audible pop.
The
treatment for a plantar fascia tear is typically 3 weeks of non-weight bearing
immobilization. This will be followed by around three weeks of weight bearing
in a protective boot. At around six weeks the patient is typically allowed to
bear weight in a well-supported shoe.
Orthotics, or arch supports, are beneficial. Physical therapy is
initiated early on and carried through until the patient is back to normal
activities. Physical therapy often includes ultrasound, deep tissue massage and
electrotherapy. It is aimed at increasing blood flow to the area and decreasing
inflammation.
Primary
surgical repair of the plantar fascia is controversial with little data to
support this treatment. Therefore, I would not expect to see Pau Gasol back on
the court for at least eight weeks.
If
you are experiencing any type of heel pain, make an appointment with your
Austin podiatrist today. Waiting to treat heel pain can prolong healing time and may increase the likelihood of a prolonged recovery. Contact Dr. Jeff LaMour for an immediate appointment.
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