Plantar fasciitis develops when the thick ligament on the bottom of your foot, called the plantar fascia, becomes irritated from repeated stress or strain. This strong band of tissue absorbs shock and supports the arch while walking, running, and standing. Tiny tears can develop when too much pressure is placed on it, leading to pain and inflammation. The most noticeable symptom is sharp heel pain with the first few steps after getting out of bed. Pain can also return after sitting for a long time or after spending hours on your feet. Plantar fasciitis can affect one or both feet, making everyday activities more difficult and limiting comfort while walking.
Several factors increase the risk of plantar fasciitis. These include repeated impact from running, standing for long periods of time, and carrying excess body weight. Shoes that lack proper support can also place added strain on the plantar fascia. A podiatrist performs a careful examination of your foot to identify the source of heel pain and rule out conditions with similar symptoms. Diagnostic imaging, like X-rays or ultrasound scans can help confirm the diagnosis. Treatment focuses on reducing inflammation, relieving pain, and improving foot function. Custom orthotics can improve arch support and reduce stress on the plantar fascia. Targeted exercises can improve flexibility and strengthen the muscles that support the foot.
Ignoring persistent heel pain can allow the condition to become more difficult to treat and interfere with work, exercise, and daily activities. Early care also lowers the chance of developing long-lasting pain that affects normal movement. A podiatrist can recommend stretching exercises that improve flexibility in the plantar fascia and calf muscles, helping to reduce strain on the ligament. The goal is to restore comfort, improve mobility, and help patients return to normal activities with less pain. If you have symptoms of plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Paul Potach, DPM from Illinois . Our practitioner can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
- Excessive running
- Having high arches in your feet
- Other foot issues such as flat feet
- Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
- Being on your feet very often
There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.
Prevention
- Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
- Maintain a healthy weight
- If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain
There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Wheeling and Berwyn, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
