Minnesota Vikings All-Pro defensive tackle Kevin Williams missed the end of preseason, but is expected to be healthy enough to play in the regular-season opener in San Diego on Sept. 11. According to Vikings head coach Leslie Frazier, “Plantar fasciitis is what we're dealing with. From everything they tell me, we have to rest him, but he should be fine for the season opener. So that's what we're crossing our fingers hoping."
Plantar fasciitis is a painful inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick fibrous band of connective tissue that runs from the heel bone along the bottom of the foot to the toes. Williams had been playing through the pain in his left foot since training camp opened, but finally had to leave the field after he was unable to push off the foot in their preseason game at Seattle. Heel pain is one of the most common foot ailments, and the “typical” patients are middle-aged individuals with inability to recall any specific traumatic injury or event. Often times, increased body weight is a contributing factor. Yes, Kevin Williams does have his size against him – although he needs this, in addition to his agility, to continue to successfully protect his quarterback!
Additionally, plantar fasciitis is often related to a sudden change in activity, and even overuse. This makes us think - Could the injury to Kevin Williams be a direct result of the recent NFL Lock-out, if training was not adequately maintained prior to the official start of this year’s NFL season?? How many other NFL stars are dealing with similar pain, and related injuries because of a shorter pre-season??
"It's nothing bad," Williams said. "It's just resting up”. On a side note, his upcoming four game suspension may actually be a blessing in disguise at this point as plantar fasciitis is treated with rest. Williams laughed when asked if there were any doubts he'd be starting in San Diego. He still faces a four-game suspension stemming from his positive test for a banned diuretic in 2008.
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