Plantar fasciitis is a common and painful condition that affects the heel and bottom of the foot. It occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that supports the arch of the foot, becomes inflamed or damaged. The pain from plantar fasciitis can be excruciating and debilitating, making simple tasks like walking a challenge. However, there are ways to reduce this pain and improve your quality of life. Included are stretching exercises for the calf muscles and Achilles tendon, custom or over-the-counter orthotic inserts to improve arch support and provide ample cushioning, and avoiding high heels and flip-flops. Other methods to decrease pain from plantar fasciitis are taking anti-inflammatory medications and using night splints to keep the foot in a dorsiflexed position, which helps stretch the plantar fascia during sleep. More advanced measures include corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation and shockwave therapy, which stimulates healing in the plantar fascia. In rare cases, surgical intervention may be considered. If you are suffering from plantar fasciitis pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment options that are right for you.  

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Queen Mbanuzue, DPM  from In Step Podiatry Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Lanham, MD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.