What is plantar fasciitis?
The plantar fascia is a band of tissue that runs along the bottom of each foot, connecting your heel to your toes. Its job is to support the arch and to absorb shock, protecting your foot from stress.
When the plantar fascia is inflamed due to ongoing pressure, a tear or injury, you have plantar fasciitis.
What are the symptoms of plantar fasciitis?
Heel pain is the primary symptom of plantar fasciitis, but you may also have pain in the arch. Some patients also develop swelling on the bottom of their heel.
The pain usually is worse when you take your first steps after sitting or sleeping, then feels better after you start walking because the activity stretches the tissues.
Are you at risk for plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis typically develops over time due to ongoing stress and damage. You’re more likely to have the problem if you:
- Overpronate (foot rolls inward when you walk)
- Engage in repetitive or high-impact activities
- Have flat feet or high arches
- Have a tight Achilles tendon or calf muscles
How is plantar fasciitis treated?
The doctors at Advanced Foot & Ankle Center perform a complete exam including digital X-rays, if necessary, then develop a plan to heal the plantar fascia and alleviate your symptoms. Your customized treatment may include any of the following:
Conservative treatment
The doctors may recommend modifying your activities, give you an exercise regimen to stretch the tissues, or prescribe physical therapy, depending on the condition of your plantar fascia and supporting tissues.
You may need a removable walking cast if you need to immobilize your foot to give the fascia time to heal. Some patients also benefit from wearing a splint while they sleep that stretches the plantar fascia.
Orthotics
Shoe inserts that support or cushion your heel eliminate stress on the plantar fascia. Custom orthotics also may be used to correct structural abnormalities contributing to the problem.
Medication
When your symptoms don’t improve, corticosteroid injections reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
Surgical intervention
If heel pain persists for several months despite conservative measures, Dr. Voloshin or one of his associates may recommend surgery to release tension on the plantar fascia.
Patients with plantar fasciitis often develop heel spurs. If surgery is required, spurs can be removed at the same time.
Expert relief from heel pain is available at Advanced Foot & Ankle Center, so call or book an appointment online.
