Plantar Fasciitis

What is plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot-related health problem characterized by intense, stabbing heel pain. Your plantar fascia is a thick band of fibrous tissue that runs from your heel to your toes. Whenever you walk, run, or climb a flight of stairs, your plantar fascia helps promote balance. However, it also experiences significant wear-and-tear, which causes small tears to form. Over time, these tears become inflamed, causing pain, general discomfort, and in some cases, immobility. 

Anyone can develop plantar fasciitis, but it’s particularly common in people who are overweight and people who wear ill-fitting or unsupportive shoes. If you regularly experience heel pain and it doesn’t respond to conservative measures of treatment, make an appointment with Dr. Carter-Robin today. 

What are the symptoms of plantar fasciitis?

The most common symptom associated with plantar fasciitis is a sharp, stabbing pain at the bottom of your heel. The pain caused by plantar fasciitis is usually worst first thing in the morning when you wake up. You might also experience pain caused by plantar fasciitis after long periods of standing or sitting. Exercise also triggers plantar fasciitis pain, but it usually doesn’t occur until after you’re done working out. 

Should I seek medical treatment for plantar fasciitis?

Yes. Left untreated, plantar fasciitis may result in chronic heel pain that interferes with your ability to exercise or participate in other activities. In addition, if you try to change the way you walk to prevent pain, it may have unintended consequences and cause problems with your feet, knees, hips, or back.

How is plantar fasciitis diagnosed?

To diagnose plantar fasciitis, Dr. Carter-Robin reviews your medical history, asks questions about your symptoms, and physically examines your foot and heel. She also checks for areas of tenderness in your foot to pinpoint the source of your pain. Usually, these steps are enough to provide adequate insights. However, if Dr. Carter-Robin suspects your symptoms are a result of a fracture or other problem, she might order a series of X-rays or an MRI.

How is plantar fasciitis treated?

Treatment for plantar fasciitis depends on the severity of your symptoms. However, Dr. Carter-Robin usually recommends noninvasive, integrative treatments. If you’re experiencing mild-or-moderate heel pain due to plantar fasciitis, Dr. Carter-Robin might recommend stretching exercises or taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatories. If your heel pain persists, custom orthotics or night splints might be necessary. If your heel pain doesn’t respond to any of these treatments, injection therapy or surgical intervention may be necessary. 

If you’re interested in learning more about treatment for plantar fasciitis, make an appointment at Stephanie Carter-Robin, DPM, PC, today by calling the office or clicking the online booking tool.