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Have you experienced significant heel pain in your foot? If so, you may have plantar fasciitis.
The cause of plantar fasciitis involves inflammation of the band that runs along the bottom of the foot. Patients often experience a stabbing sensation in the heel, usually in the morning. As you get up and walk around, the pain usually decreases. Sometimes it may also be noticeable when you stand for long periods or move from sitting to standing.
Plantar fasciitis is more common in overweight patients, as well as athletes who participate in activities such as running. It is also seen more frequently in people with flatfoot. However, it can happen to anyone even for no reason.
Tension and stress on the fascia (the band of tissue connecting the heel bone to the toes) cause small tears, which leads to plantar fasciitis.
Typically, the fascia can support the foot and shock when walking. This is not always the case when you have plantar fasciitis, as the fascia is irritate$d or inflamed.
Other risk factors may trigger plantar fasciitis, including:
If you believe you have plantar fasciitis, it is essential you get the proper diagnosis. Florida Foot & Ankle Associates specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions affecting the foot and ankle. We have locations throughout South Florida, our specialists serving the Greater Miami Area. Check out our office locations to find the best foot and ankle doctor near you!
Most often, patients can heal plantar fasciitis by using conservative treatment options. Treatments include icing the areas where the pain is experienced and stretching the fascia tissue.
Over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen or Advil can also be effective in helping with both swelling and pain.
Participation in physical therapy can also be very effective in treating plantar fasciitis. You will learn exercises stretching the fascia and strengthening the muscles supporting the area.
Athletic taping can also be helpful for some athletes. Your physical therapist will teach you how to use athletic taping to protect the fascia adequately so it is effective for you.
Other interventions can be effective if you are still experiencing pain while participating in physical therapy. These include:
Night splints hold the fascia and Achilles tendon in a lengthened positive overnight, stretching the foot while you sleep.
Orthotic foot supports can be beneficial. They are available over the counter but can also be custom-fitted, providing better support and alleviating pressure on the foot.
Before surgery, your foot and ankle doctor may recommend trying steroid injections to help with inflammation and support healing.
Shock Wave Therapy is a non- surgical option available at Florida Foot and Ankle Associates. This involves using acoustic shock waves to break up scarring and increase blood supply to the area in an effort to allow the body to heal itself.
Finally, surgery is an option. The surgeon detaches the fascia from the heel bone. It is only considered after conservative options have failed. Your foot and ankle doctor will discuss surgery if appropriate.
Plantar fasciitis can go away on its own by using the conservative treatment options mentioned in this article. You may not experience relief overnight, but with patience, conservative treatments, and following the suggestions of your foot and ankle doctor, you can find relief from your plantar fasciitis.
At Florida Foot and Ankle Associates, we have extensive experience treating plantar fasciitis.
We have locations throughout South Florida, our specialists serving the Greater Miami Area, including Miami-Dade (Miami, Kendall, Miami Beach, Hialeah, Coral Gables), Broward County (Hollywood, Pembroke Pines), and Palm Beach County (Boca Raton)
At Florida Foot and Ankle Associates we treat a variety of foot and ankle conditions, including:
If you need a heel pain doctor, then contact us today!
The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.
