Plantar Fasciitis – The Foot Doctor

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition characterized by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes. This tissue supports the arch of the foot and acts like a shock-absorbing bowstring, helping to maintain the foot’s arch during walking.

Causes

Overuse or Overloading: Repetitive stress or excessive pressure on the feet, often seen in runners, athletes, and individuals who stand for long periods.
Foot Mechanics: Flat feet, high arches, or abnormal walking patterns (gait abnormalities) can strain the plantar fascia.
Age: More common in middle-aged individuals.
Obesity: Excess weight increases stress on the plantar fascia.
Occupational Factors: Jobs that involve prolonged standing or walking on hard surfaces.

Symptoms

Pain: Typically felt on the bottom of the heel and sometimes along the arch of the foot. Pain is often most severe with the first steps after waking up or after long periods of rest.
Stiffness: The foot may feel stiff and tight, especially in the morning or after prolonged sitting.
Tenderness: The bottom of the foot may be sensitive to touch.

Preventing

Maintain a healthy weight.
Wear supportive shoes appropriate for your foot type and activity level.
Gradually increase the intensity of exercise or physical activity.
Stretch the calves and feet regularly.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is typically based on medical history and a physical exam. Imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI may be used to rule out other causes or to assess the severity of the condition.

Treatment

Rest and Ice: Resting the foot and applying ice packs to reduce inflammation.
Stretching Exercises: Gentle stretching of the calf muscles and the plantar fascia can help improve flexibility and reduce pain.
Footwear: Wearing supportive shoes with good arch support and cushioning. Avoid going barefoot or wearing unsupportive footwear.
Orthotics: Shoe inserts or orthotic devices can provide additional support and cushioning.
Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen may help reduce pain and inflammation.
Physical Therapy: Exercises and treatments to strengthen the muscles of the foot and leg.
Injections: Corticosteroid injections may be recommended in severe cases to reduce inflammation.

Most cases of plantar fasciitis improve with conservative treatments over several months. Severe cases that do not respond to these treatments may require more aggressive interventions like shockwave therapy or, in rare cases, surgery to release the tension on the plantar fascia.

If you suspect you have plantar fasciitis or are experiencing persistent foot pain, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.