What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that affects millions of people each year. It’s characterized by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot, connecting your heel bone to your toes.
Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis
The most common symptom of plantar fasciitis is heel pain. This is typically most severe during the first few steps after awakening, although it can also be triggered by long periods of standing or rising from sitting. The pain is usually worse after exercise, not during it.
Other symptoms may include:
- Foot pain after prolonged periods of standing or walking.
- Stiffness and pain in the morning or after resting.
- Pain that worsens when climbing stairs or when your foot is flexed.
- Pain that improves as you move around and the foot warms up.
Diagnosing Plantar Fasciitis
Diagnosis of plantar fasciitis is typically made through a physical examination. Your doctor may check your foot for tenderness and ask you to flex your foot while they push on the plantar fascia to see if the pain gets worse. Imaging tests such as X-rays or an MRI may be used to rule out other problems.
Possible Treatments for Plantar Fasciitis
Treatment for plantar fasciitis includes several options:
- Physical Therapy: Exercises and stretches can help strengthen your lower leg muscles, helping to stabilize your walk and lessen the workload on your plantar fascia.
- Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.
- Orthotics and Supportive Shoes: Wearing shoes with good arch support and a cushioned sole can ease discomfort. Custom orthotics could provide additional support.
- Night Splints: Wearing a splint fitted to your calf and foot while you sleep can help stretch your plantar fascia, Achilles tendon, and calf muscles.
- Injection Therapy: Steroid medication may be injected into the plantar fascia to reduce inflammation and pain. Some doctors may also recommend injecting platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to promote healing.
- Surgery: In rare cases, when conservative treatments don’t help, surgery might be considered.
Next Steps
If you’re experiencing symptoms of plantar fasciitis, it’s important to seek professional help. At Sharma Foot & Ankle Specialist, we’re committed to providing personalized care for your foot and ankle needs.
Don’t let foot pain hold you back. Reach out and make an appointment with us today. Your feet will thank you!
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. If you’re experiencing symptoms of plantar fasciitis, please consult with a healthcare professional.