Plantar Fasciitis Specialist

What are the symptoms of plantar fasciitis?

Your heel bone is connected to your toes by a band of tissue called the plantar fascia. Plantar fasciitis refers to inflammation of these tissues that results in stabbing pain at the bottom of your foot. 

The pain caused by plantar fasciitis seems to worsen after long periods of inactivity. Many sufferers report intense, stabbing pain during their first steps out of bed in the morning. Typically, as you move around, the pain subsides, only to return after extended periods of sitting or standing. 

How do you get plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the result of excess tension and stress on the plantar fascia. Repeated stretching and tearing of the tissues at the bottom of your feet results in inflammation, pain, and discomfort. 

Although the exact cause of plantar fasciitis isn’t always known, a number of factors can increase your risks. Among them are:

• Age
• Certain physical activities
• Obesity
• Deformities and other foot abnormalities

Plantar fasciitis is common among people between the ages of 40 and 60. Obesity and activities like running or aerobic exercise can put extra stress on the plantar fascia, resulting in plantar fasciitis. Certain foot abnormalities like flat feet or high arches can also put excess stress on your plantar fascia. 

What treatments are available for plantar fasciitis?

Before you begin treatment, your podiatrist performs a thorough evaluation, including a physical exam and discussion of your symptoms and medical history. During the physical, your podiatrist checks for areas of pain and tenderness in your foot. 

In many cases, the location of your symptoms can help to determine the underlying cause. Depending on your evaluation, your doctor may perform an X-ray to rule out other conditions, such as stress fractures and bone spurs. 

Once you’ve been diagnosed, your doctor works with you to develop the right treatment plan for your needs. In most cases, your podiatrist can effectively relieve your symptoms with conservative care. Depending on your condition, your conservative treatment plan may include:

• Orthotics
• Night splints
• Injections
• Shockwave therapy
• Anti-inflammatory medication
• Physical therapy

If your condition is more severe or doesn’t respond to conservative care, your podiatrist may recommend surgery. 

Surgery for plantar fasciitis involves detaching the plantar fascia from the heel bone. To speak with a foot and ankle specialist about your symptoms, call Foot Healers or book your appointment online today.