Indeed you have seen the sole and have asked yourself this question at some time: “why do I have the sole red?” You are not the only one. This can happen very frequently and is a reason for frequent consultation with the podiatrist. However, it is not taken into account in many cases if it is not accompanied by other more severe symptoms such as limitation of ambulation.
Seeing the sole red accompanied by other symptoms is known as plantar fasciitis: throughout life, anyone is exposed to suffer from this alteration. Different factors can predispose the appearance of this alteration, such as obesity, the practice of some sports such as running or walking, and even the use of inappropriate footwear.
If you want to know in-depth the answer to “why do I have a red sole,” continue reading this article by FastlyHealso that you can clarify all your doubts about plantar fasciitis.
Table of Contents
What is plantar fasciitis?
The foot is covered by a thick fabric that extends throughout the sole, responsible for connecting the heel with the toes. This tissue is called the plantar fascia, and its inflammation or swelling is known as plantar fasciitis.
This ailment is present in the early morning hours when the first steps are taken when getting up. The sole is red, accompanied by a stabbing pain that disappears as you move. This pain in the sole can reappear when you stand for very long periods or, conversely, you sit for a long time and get up from your seat.
Causes of red sole
The leading cause of plantar fasciitis is stretching or overloading the plantar fascia. If you wonder, “why do I have a red sole” you should know that this alteration in some cases occurs without an apparent cause, although there is also a risk that it will happen in the following circumstances:
Age
It is frequently evidenced in people between 40 and 60 years of age. However, this is not a limitation for it to happen in younger people.
Obesity
Overweight people are more likely to suffer from plantar fasciitis due to the additional pressure that their body weight puts on their feet, which involves the plantar fascia.
The practice of some exercises
The practice of a physical activity that exerts a lot of pressure on the heel and the tissues attached to it can cause the appearance of plantar fasciitis.
These activities include ballet, aerobic dance, and long-distance running.
According to the mechanics of the foot
There could be an alteration in the way the weight is distributed when standing, causing tremendous stress on the plantar fascia if:
- You have flat feet.
- You have a high plantar arch.
- You walk abnormally.
Inappropriate footwear
Another cause that can answer “why do I have a red sole” is the use of footwear that is not suitable for the physical activity to be carried out can generate the appearance of plantar fasciitis.
Shortening of a muscle
This limitation can occur congenitally or by an accident that causes it. In this way, the pressure on the plantar fascia would increase, giving rise to plantar fasciitis.
According to the posture of the foot
People who must stand or walk for a long time on hard surfaces can affect the plantar fascia. This is frequently seen in teachers or people who work in factories.
Plantar fasciitis symptoms
Plantar fasciitis makes its appearance accompanied by some characteristic symptoms that allow a quick and easy diagnosis:
- Intense pain in the sole occurs in the inner part of the heel, where the plantar fascia is inserted. During the night, this is shortened, so in the morning, stiffness occurs, which is evident by the muscular pain when getting up.
- The red sole.
- Swelling of the foot
- Heel tenderness.
How to cure plantar fasciitis
The first indication to relieve plantar fasciitis pain is a minimum of one week’s rest, accompanied by applying local ice to the area where the pain is. Along with drug treatment to relieve pain in the sole and reduce inflammation, Paracetamol, Ibuprofen, or Naproxen.
It is advisable to perform stretching and strengthening exercises for the heel and foot. These should always be directed by a physiotherapist who will know how to push the plantar fascia and the Achilles tendon and strengthen the muscles located in the lower part of the legs.
In addition to rest and stretching, you may also need to:
- Use of night splints: the physiotherapist will indicate using these devices to stretch the calf and the arch while you sleep. This will ensure that both the plantar fascia and the Achilles tendon remain extended at night to facilitate testing.
- Use of orthopedic insoles: both the doctor and the physiotherapist will indicate the use of these custom-made insoles to distribute the pressure on the foot when stepping evenly.
If the application of these measures does not work, the doctor will indicate:
- Application of injections with steroidal drugs will temporarily relieve the area where the pain is.
- Extracorporeal shock wave therapy is indicated in chronic plantar fasciitis, which does not respond to conventional treatment. It consists of applying sound waves in the region of the heel, where the pain is, with which it will be possible to stimulate recovery.
- Surgery: This is done to separate the plantar fascia from the heel bone. This option is used in patients with severe pain, and the treatments described above have not been effective.
How to prevent the sole from turning red
If you want to prevent the sole from turning red, follow these recommendations:
- Wear shoes with good support: low-heeled shoes with orthopedic backing, thick soles, and additional cushioning are recommended. It is essential to avoid walking barefoot.
- Shoes in good condition: if your sports shoes are worn, avoid their use; replace them if they are old before they stop supporting and cushioning your feet.
- Stay on your weight: avoid being overweight. This will increase the tension of the plantar fascia, causing pain, swelling, and redness of the foot.
- Practice a low-impact sport: performing exercises such as swimming or cycling avoid the tension of the plantar fascia, unlike others such as running and even walking, which directly affect it.
- Stretch the arches daily: the daily practice of home exercises allows you to stretch the plantar fascia, the calf muscles, and the Achilles tendon. This will reduce the tension in the area.
This article is merely informative. At FastlyHeal .com, we do not have the power to prescribe medical treatments or make any diagnosis. We invite you to see a doctor if you present any type of condition or discomfort.
If you want to read more articles similar to Why do I have a red sole, we recommend that you enter our Bones, Joints, and Muscles category.
I am a Surgeon with a diploma in comprehensive ultrasound and surgical care residency, an area I am specializing in. During the exercise of my profession, I have realized the need for patients to know the diseases they suffer, and I can tell you that a large part of their complications is due to a lack of information. Being a health web writer allows me to transmit my experience, without borders, to all those readers eager for knowledge, educate them in the prevention of diseases and promote a healthy lifestyle.