Plantar Fasciitis Treatment

Are you experiencing persistent heel pain? It could be plantar fasciitis. At Bluebonnet Foot and Ankle Institute, our experienced podiatrists, Babak Kaviani, DPM, and Liza Chabokrow, DPM, specialize in diagnosing and treating this common condition. Let’s explore what plantar fasciitis is, its symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and the range of treatments available at our practice.

If you are experiencing plantar fasciitis pain, feel free to discuss our treatment options at Bluebonnet Foot and Ankle Institute. Our podiatrists in Austin, Texas, can offer personalized treatments according to your condition. Contact us today!

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Understanding Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is characterized by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs from the heel bone to the base of the toes. The plantar fascia holds the bones of your feet together and forms the arch under your foot.

This condition is often marked by intense heel or arch pain. It can significantly impair your daily activities. It’s crucial to seek a professional evaluation if you’re experiencing persistent heel or foot pain.

Causes of Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia is exposed to repeated tension and stress. This causes micro tears that increase over time, causing irritation and inflammation.

Doctors used to think that bony growths called heel spurs brought on the pain. They now understand that heel spurs are the result of plantar fasciitis.

Risk Factors

There are many factors that can put you at a greater risk of developing plantar fasciitis. These factors include the following:

Your age: Those between the ages of 40 and 60 are more likely to get plantar fasciitis.
The exercise you do: Sports and exercise such as long-distance running, ballet, or aerobics can put extra stress on your plantar fascia.
Your foot mechanics: The way you walk or stand can put extra stress on your plantar fascia.
Your weight: The extra weight of obesity can put an extra strain on your foot structure.
Your occupation: Extra hours standing or walking on hard surfaces can add stress to your feet.

Signs and Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis

Recognizing plantar fasciitis symptoms can help you seek prompt treatment. Common symptoms include the following:

If you’re experiencing these symptoms, it’s time to consult with a podiatrist at Bluebonnet Foot and Ankle Institute for accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing plantar fasciitis typically involves a comprehensive medical history review and physical examination. While imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs may be recommended in some cases to rule out other potential causes, the diagnosis primarily relies on clinical evaluation by a skilled healthcare professional.

How to Treat Plantar Fasciitis

At Bluebonnet Foot and Ankle Institute, we offer a range of options in the treatment of plantar fasciitis. Our podiatrists will tailor these treatments to your specific needs. Our goal is to alleviate pain, promote healing, and restore functionality. Treatment options may include:

Conservative Measures: Initial treatment often involves conservative approaches such as rest, ice therapy, stretching exercises, and modifying activities to reduce stress on the plantar fascia.
Medications: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or pain relievers may be prescribed to alleviate pain and inflammation.
Therapies: A physical therapist helps with stretches of the plantar fascia and calf muscles as well as strengthening the surrounding muscles. Night splints may also be recommended to maintain the foot and ankle in a dorsiflexed position, promoting tissue healing.
Orthotic Devices: Custom-fitted orthotic inserts or supportive shoes can help distribute pressure evenly, reducing strain on the plantar fascia and facilitating recovery.

Advanced Treatment Options

Most people with plantar fasciitis recover with conservative measures. However, in these rare instances when these measures don’t work, advanced interventions may be considered:

Injections: Corticosteroid injections or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy can provide targeted relief by reducing inflammation and promoting tissue regeneration.
Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT): This non-invasive procedure uses sound waves to stimulate healing in chronic plantar fasciitis cases.
MLS Laser Therapy: Effectively treats pain and inflammation.
Surgical Intervention: In rare instances where conservative treatments fail to yield desired results, surgical options such as plantar fascia release may be recommended to relieve chronic heel pain.

Prevention Strategies

Preventing plantar fasciitis involves adopting healthy habits and lifestyle modifications. This includes proper stretching before and after exercise, wearing supportive footwear, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding prolonged standing or walking on hard surfaces whenever possible.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

Don’t let plantar heel pain hinder your quality of life. Schedule an appointment with Bluebonnet Foot and Ankle Institute for expert evaluation and personalized treatment. Whether you’re seeking nonsurgical interventions or considering advanced treatment options, our dedicated team is here to help you find relief and get back on your feet.

Contact us today in Austin, TX, to book your consultation and take the first step toward overcoming plantar fasciitis discomfort!

Medically reviewed by Liza Chabokrow, DPM