Plantar Fasciitis treatment

Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of heel pain. It is more likely to occur in people who engage in activities that put a lot of stress on the feet, such as running, walking, or standing for long periods of time. Our podiatrists can treat plantar fasciitis by using a combination of non-invasive and invasive methods. Non-invasive methods may include physical therapy, custom orthotics, exercises, and shoe inserts to improve the arch support. Invasive methods may include corticosteroid injections or extracorporeal shockwave therapy. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary. Our podiatrist will conduct a thorough evaluation and recommend the best course of treatment for each individual patient based on the severity of their condition and their specific needs and goals.

The symptoms of plantar fasciitis may include:

Pain and tenderness in the heel and bottom of the foot, especially when taking the first steps in the morning or after periods of rest
Pain when standing for long periods or after intense activity
Stiffness in the foot and heel, which may improve with movement
Swelling or inflammation in the heel and foot
Difficulty walking or bearing weight on the affected foot

Overuse or excessive physical activity: Engaging in activities that put repeated stress on the feet, such as running, jumping, or dancing, can strain the plantar fascia and lead to its inflammation.
Poor foot mechanics or structural abnormalities: Flat feet, high arches, or an abnormal walking pattern can place uneven stress on the plantar fascia, increasing the risk of developing plantar fasciitis.
Improper footwear: Wearing shoes that lack proper arch support or cushioning, or shoes that do not fit properly, can contribute to plantar fasciitis. High heels, which can put excessive pressure on the heel and alter the natural gait, may also increase the risk.
Obesity or weight gain: Carrying excess body weight puts additional stress on the feet, including the plantar fascia, increasing the likelihood of developing plantar fasciitis.
Age: Plantar fasciitis commonly affects individuals between the ages of 40 and 60, as the plantar fascia tends to become less flexible and more prone to injury with age.
Tight calf muscles or Achilles tendon: Tightness in the calf muscles or the Achilles tendon can place extra strain on the plantar fascia, increasing the risk of developing plantar fasciitis.
Certain occupations or activities: Jobs or activities that involve prolonged standing or walking on hard surfaces, such as factory workers, teachers, or athletes, can contribute to the development of plantar fasciitis.

There are a number of treatment options for plantar fasciitis, which is a common cause of heel pain. These include:

Stretching exercises: Stretching the plantar fascia and calf muscles can help alleviate pain and improve flexibility.
Ice therapy: Applying ice to the affected area for 15-20 minutes several times a day can help reduce inflammation.
Arch supports: Arch supports or shoe inserts can help redistribute weight on the foot and reduce strain on the plantar fascia.
Orthotic inserts: Custom orthotic inserts can help correct any underlying foot problems that may be contributing to plantar fasciitis.
Physical therapy: Physical therapy can help strengthen the muscles in the foot and improve flexibility.
Rest: Resting and avoiding activities that exacerbate the pain can allow the plantar fascia to heal.
NSAIDs: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen can help reduce inflammation and pain.
Corticosteroid injections: In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be recommended to reduce inflammation in the plantar fascia.
Surgery: In severe cases that do not respond to other treatments, surgery may be necessary to release the plantar fascia or remove any calcium deposits.