What is plantar fasciitis?
Whether you’re walking, running, or just standing, your daily movements put a lot of strain on your feet. This repetitive strain leads to plantar fasciitis -- pain and inflammation resulting from tiny tears in the thick ligament that runs along the bottom of your foot. This common condition can be quite painful, but with proper treatment, you can make a full recovery. Some commonly reported symptoms are:
- Pain in the arch and heel
- Pain that’s worse after exercising
- Pain and stiffness first thing in the morning that eases with walking
How can I prevent plantar fasciitis?
It’s not 100% known why plantar fasciitis develops, but certain conditions and circumstances can make you more susceptible, including:
- Having flat feet
- Being overweight
- Making repetitive movements
- Overstretching your foot
- Being 40-60 years of age
- Having arthritis
- Having tight calf muscles
If you’re at risk for developing plantar fasciitis, talk to Dr. Kaviani or Dr. Chabokrow about your preventive options, such as custom orthotics or foot and calf exercises.
What treatments are available for plantar fasciitis?
During your appointment, your podiatrist performs a thorough examination of your foot and obtains your medical history, then makes treatment recommendations based on your individual needs. Dr. Kaviani or Dr. Chabokrow may recommend a nonsurgical or surgical treatment depending on the severity of your condition.
For mild to moderate plantar fasciitis, there are several nonsurgical treatment options:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication
- Exercises
- Stretches for your calf and plantar fascia
- Night splints
- Ice to reduce inflammation
- Rest
- Physical therapy
Dr. Kaviani or Dr. Chabokrow may choose to fit you for a custom orthotic -- a shoe insert that provides added arch support and helps reduce plantar fascia tension. They may also prescribe an anti-inflammatory steroid called cortisone, which is injected directly into your plantar fascia.
In severe cases, surgical treatment could be necessary, such as one of these options:
- Gastrocnemius recession: lengthening of the calf muscle
- Plantar fascia release: partial cutting of the plantar fascia tissue to relieve tension
Typically, the doctors discuss surgery options after trying more conservative methods. If you find your foot isn’t responding to treatment over time and your pain persists, you may require surgery.
To book an evaluation at Bluebonnet Foot and Ankle Institute, use the online scheduling system or phone the office.
