Wahid 82pv9817et1@outlook.com – Posted On: August 4, 2014

Hi Bernadette,Thanks for the comments. I segugst reading the article I wrote on plantar fasciitis (below) and following the exercises as a starting point. Hiring a really good fascial therapist who has a successful history treating PF would be a good idea too. I have had great success in treating PF. In most cases, moving out of the acute pain stage within 3-4 sessions. Once you are out of the pain stage, it is time to focus on flexibility and corrective exercises to strengthen the arches, knees and hips. You will find a few in this article.Now, my guess is that you have been wearing shoes with a significant heel lift for many years. (I consider the heel lift of most running shoes to be significant). The heel lift in shoes places your achilles tendon in a shortened position. It does not get stretched out fully when you walk. This is compounded by heel strike. Over time the achilles and lower leg muscles in your calf become somewhat permanently shortened. This is the primary issue that causes PF and just about every other foot pain issue. The shortened state places strain through the plantar fascia and other structures which eventually become inflamed (for lack of a better term). This is also the reason going barefoot is so painful. When you are barefoot, you are forcing the full natural range of motion of your now shortened ankle which places excess stress on the achilles tendon. Plus the muscles of the lower leg and arches are not strengthened to handle this new ROM. So they get fatigued quickly. The key will be to work through the active pain of PF. Then begin a rehab process that focuses on increasing flexibility and strengthening the ankle and calves. When it comes to walking around barefoot: I would keep the amount of time down. Spend 5-10 minutes a day at first and over the course of weeks slowly add more time. It MUST be PAIN FREE. Start buying shoes with less of a heel wedge. Don't make a drastic move from the higher heels you are currently wearing to a zero drop over night. But eventually you will want a zero drop shoe, if your foot can handle it. This is a process that will take at least a year and possibly two years to fully adapt into. I hope this helps. Let me know if you have any more questions. Also, something you didn't mention in the above post. Do you wear orthotics?Jesse James Retherford

Danielle Kulesa Eau Claire, WI – Posted On: August 30, 2013

My deepest sympathy to the Zakrzewicz family. Kenny was always happy go lucky and willing to take a minute for a chat no matter how busy he was. He had that smile & personality that will never be forgotten, but surely missed. I wish everyone many condolences and hope you find comfort in knowing how many lives he touched. Deepest sympathies to all. The Kulesa Family

Annie Hanke (Kwiesielewicz) Wausau, WI – Posted On: August 30, 2013

My deepest sympathy to Eugene, Phil and the rest of the family. Kenny was always a friendly and pleasant guy. I will alway remember his great smile and warm personality. I wish you all peace and hope you find comfort in knowing how many lives he touched. My sympathies

Betty Juzwiak Bowen Medford, Wi – Posted On: August 25, 2013

Dear Zakrzewicz Family, So sorry for your loss, hold on to the memories and may they comfort you at this time. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.

Gloria (Peleschak) Olson Phelps WI – Posted On: August 21, 2013

Dear Zakrzewicz Family: I know how hard this is for all of you. Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers. Hard to express such feelings for the loss of Kenny. You were our "other" family. Love to you all.

Wendy Kostick Loveland CO – Posted On: August 20, 2013

I am so sorry to hear about Kenny's passing. He was a dear friend to me and always made me laugh. My thoughts, prayers, and love go out to you all. God Speed Kenny, rest in peace. Peace be with you all.