When Antonio Gates of the San Diego Chargers tore his plantar fascia last year, sports enthusiasts questioned whether his career had reached its peak. Even after the tear healed, he was plagued by reoccurring plantar fasciitis all through the 2010-2011 season and through the start of this year.

It's clear that Antonio Gates is coming out of his shell again, despite the Chargers' 45-38 loss against the Packers. He received 8 passes for 96 yards and scored a touchdown in Sunday's game. There was no indication that he was letting his plantar fasciitis bother him at all.

If you suffer from plantar fasciitis, here are some things you can do to help treat and minimize the pain:

  • Rest and ice the area and stop performing the activities that cause pain.
  • Use anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen and aspirin to reduce pain and swelling.
  • Wear a foot brace during the day, such as the Aircast Airheel which supports the bottom of the foot and enhances circulation.
  • Wear a plantar fasciitis night splint during the night, which helps stretch the plantar fascia while you sleep and reduces pain in the morning. (Note, you can also get a plantar fasciitis kit which contains both the Airheel and Aircast Dorsal Night Splint.)
  • If your doctor recommends it, go to physical therapy to strengthen and stretch the plantar fascia.

It looks like the rest and rehabilitation that Antonio Gates has been putting toward his foot is finally starting to pay off. Check with your doctor for the appropriate treatment for your condition, and don't let plantar fasciitis hold you back from doing the activities that you enjoy!