Plantar Fasciitis Specialist

Why do I have plantar fasciitis?

Your plantar fascia is that thick, durable, fibrous connective tissue that spans across your arch and links your forefoot to your heel bone. Plantar fasciitis means that your plantar fascia is inflamed on an ongoing basis, possibly due to:

• Obesity
• Pregnancy 
• Bone spurs 
• Structural problems, including flat feet
• Repetitive stress, like if you’re a distance runner

Your shoes may be to blame, too. For instance, if you wear ill-fitting or heavily worn shoes to exercise, train, or work, you put added strain on your plantar fascia. This can lead to chronic inflammation over time. 

What are the symptoms of plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is well-known for causing agonizing heel pain, as well as mid-foot pain near your arches. But what makes this discomfort unique is that it peaks after long bouts of inactivity, such as sitting at your desk or even sleeping. During a plantar fasciitis flare-up, you may also experience:

• Burning
• Aching
• Swelling 

As you start walking and moving around, your plantar fascia starts to stretch out. This is why your symptoms generally fade when you become more active. 

But it’s certainly possible to overdo it. In some cases, periods of intense physical activity can lead to agonizing plantar fasciitis pain shortly after your session is complete. 

Because plantar fasciitis can lead to serious discomfort, the podiatrists at Orthopedic Associates: Foot & Ankle Specialists provide comprehensive diagnostic testing to determine which treatment may be most effective for your needs. 

Do I need surgery for plantar fasciitis?

Not always. Your podiatrist at Orthopedic Associates: Foot & Ankle Specialists is likely going to find the best combination of conservative treatments for your unique needs to see if they offer you relief. Treatments may include:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT)
• Stretching exercises
• Corticosteroid injections  
• Strapping and taping
• Orthotic devices
• Physical therapy 
• Night splints

Of course, conservative therapies sometimes aren’t enough, and surgery is necessary. Your dedicated podiatrist at Orthopedic Associates: Foot & Ankle Specialists can use minimally invasive measures to release your plantar fascia, remove bone spurs, lengthen your calf muscle, or make any other necessary adjustments to help you get lasting relief from plantar fasciitis. 

With the help of Orthopedic Associates: Foot & Ankle Specialists, your plantar fasciitis pain won’t take over your life any longer. Find out more by requesting a plantar fasciitis evaluation online or over the phone today.