Camino and Plantar Fasciitis

Walking the Camino de Santiago?

One of our lovely customers, Rachel, contacted us to let us know Revs were her saviours while walking the Camino De Santiago. During her training, she developed plantar fasciitis which became worse over time. Rachel tried many different approaches to help relieve the pain she suffered in her feet, but without success. Thankfully she came across Revs! Plantar fasciitis involves inflammation of the tissue along the bottom of the foot, causing pain, particularly in the heel or arch. The repetitive stress on the feet can exacerbate the condition. Reflexology works by stimulating specific pressure points on the feet that correspond to various parts of the body, including the feet and the lower limbs.

Here's how reflexology, and Revs footwear and insoles may help with plantar fasciitis for walkers training for and during their Camino trip:

1. Improved Circulation

   Reflexology can stimulate blood flow and circulation, which may help reduce inflammation in the affected areas of the feet. By improving circulation, the body is better able to deliver oxygen and nutrients to the damaged tissue, promoting faster healing.

2. Pain Relief

   By targeting specific reflex points on the feet, reflexology may help reduce the perception of pain and discomfort. The stimulation of these reflex zones can trigger the body’s natural pain-relief mechanisms, such as the release of endorphins, which are the body's natural painkillers.

3. Relaxation and Stress Relief

   Walking long distances on the Camino de Santiago can be physically and mentally taxing. Reflexology promotes relaxation by reducing overall tension in the body, which may help alleviate muscle tightness and stress in the feet and legs. Less overall tension can contribute to less strain on the plantar fascia.

4. Targeting Reflex Points for Foot Health

   There are specific reflex points on the feet that correspond to the plantar fascia, heel, arch, and toes. A skilled reflexologist will apply pressure to these areas to help alleviate the discomfort associated with plantar fasciitis. For example:

   • The heel area corresponds to the plantar fascia, and gentle pressure on this point may help reduce pain and inflammation.
   • The arch reflex area can be targeted to help relieve tension in the muscles and fascia that support the arch.
   • The toes and ball of the foot correspond to the reflexes of the spine, which may help relieve overall tension and promote body alignment, potentially improving gait and reducing strain on the feet.
5. Promoting Body Balance, Posture and Gait

   When the body is out of balance, it can lead to compensatory movements that may exacerbate foot problems like plantar fasciitis. Reflexology may help re-establish balance in the body’s systems, potentially improving posture, gait, and the way weight is distributed while walking. This can help reduce the repetitive stress that leads to conditions like plantar fasciitis.

6. Reducing Inflammation

   By working on the reflex points associated with the feet and lower legs, reflexology may stimulate the lymphatic system, which plays a role in flushing out toxins and reducing swelling. This can aid in managing inflammation in the foot, which is key to alleviating the discomfort of plantar fasciitis.

7. Practical Tips for Walkers on the Camino:
   
   • Frequency: Receiving reflexology sessions regularly during your walk is not practical, which is why Revs can support you during, and after, long days of walking.
   • Foot Care: Alongside Revs reflexology support, continue taking good care of your feet with stretching, ice and rest days if you need them. Combining these strategies will maximize recovery and help prevent further injury.

Revs allowed Rachel not only to complete the Camino de Santiago but to do so pain free! Well done Rachel!