Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common reasons why a patient might schedule a visit with an orthopedic specialist. In fact, around two million patients are treated for plantar fasciitis each year in the United States. But how well do you really understand this condition? If you yourself were struggling with plantar fasciitis, would you know?
At OAA Orthopedic Specialists, our board-certified, fellowship-trained physicians are committed to empowering our patients, helping them to identify common orthopedic troubles, and encouraging them to seek treatment from a specialist sooner rather than later. Here are a few important things to learn about plantar fasciitis that may be helpful if you’re experiencing foot pain of your own:
Get Familiar With the Plantar Fascia
“Plantar fasciitis” is a strange name for a condition, and nothing about it may seem to indicate that it has anything to do with the feet at first glance. In actuality, plantar fasciitis is named for the specific part of the foot that it affects: the “plantar fascia.”
The plantar fascia is a ligament that stretches along the bottom of your foot, connecting the heel to the front. It is webbed and thick, and it absorbs shock and supports your arch as you walk, run, play, and do everything your feet were meant to do.
Although the plantar fascia is strong, it’s not infallible, and certain circumstances can cause the tendon to become inflamed and severely painful.
Understand How Plantar Fasciitis Happens
Plantar fasciitis typically arises when the plantar fascia ligament undergoes too much wear and tear, leading to inflammation and pain in the heel. This condition is often related to excessive pressure being placed on the heel bone and attached tissues. Factors such as obesity, footwear lacking proper support, or a sudden increase in activity can amplify this pressure.
Additionally, tight calf muscles may contribute to the problem by not allowing for adequate movement of the foot, which in turn puts more strain on the plantar fascia. Sometimes, this prolonged stress and strain can lead to the development of heel spurs—bony growths on the heel bone—though they are not always present with plantar fasciitis and might not cause symptoms themselves.
If you’re over 40, have a particularly high foot arch, or wear shoes that are ill-fitting or lack support, you’re likely at a higher risk than others for developing plantar fasciitis.
Know the Signs of Plantar Fasciitis
While there are plenty of potential causes for general foot pain, the symptoms of plantar fasciitis can be quite distinctive. Patients who end up being treated for plantar fasciitis usually report the following sensations before and during their exam:
- Pain around or on the bottom of the heel (pain can be dull, stabbing, or burning)
- Pain around or inside the arch of the foot
- Swelling in the area of the heel
- Tightening in the Achilles tendon
- Pain that worsens after exercise
Plantar fasciitis symptoms can also become more severe when standing after a long period of sitting or lying down, including when you first get out of bed in the morning.
Plantar Fasciitis Treatment
Treating plantar fasciitis pain involves a combination of methods and often requires patience and persistence. Initially, conservative treatments such as rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medications, and stretching exercises may be recommended. These can help alleviate the immediate discomfort and start the healing process.
For chronic plantar fasciitis or when the pain is intense, more structured treatments may be necessary. Physical therapy is commonly prescribed to strengthen and stretch the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon. Physical therapist-guided stretches and exercises can be critical for long-term healing. Additionally, custom orthotics or supportive shoes/inserts may be used to provide support and cushioning to the foot.
In situations where there is severe discomfort, night splints may be utilized to maintain a stretched position of the plantar fascia while you sleep. This can help reduce morning symptoms of tightness and pain. For those unresponsive to traditional treatments, other interventions such as corticosteroid injections, shock wave therapy, or even surgery may be considered. To treat plantar fasciitis effectively, it is essential to consult withthe podiatry team at OAA, we can provide the appropriate care for your unique case.
Be Ready to Take Action
Pain associated with plantar fasciitis can last for months without treatment, so if you’ve been in foot pain for some time, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with an orthopedic podiatry specialist. An orthopedist who treats conditions of the foot such as plantar fasciitis every day will have a number of solutions to help you find relief from your pain in the short term and long term, and can even help recommend you a pair of shoes that will give you the arch support you need to prevent plantar fasciitis from flaring up again.
Plantar fasciitis is common, but it is also highly treatable and preventable. Consider incorporating foot stretches and proper arch support into your daily routine if you're at a high risk for plantar fasciitis. If you need guidance, the podiatry team at OAA is happy to help!
If you’re struggling with chronic foot pain, don’t wait until your symptoms get worse. Reach out to the specialists at OAA for an exam and accurate diagnosis from a board-certified professional. If you’re ready to start living pain-free, schedule an appointment with us today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is plantar fasciitis only a problem for runners?
No, anyone can develop plantar fasciitis. While running and other high-impact activities can increase the risk, factors such as obesity, improper footwear, and tight calf muscles also play a role. It can also occur in people who are not very active.
Can I continue my regular activities while recovering from plantar fasciitis?
It is recommended to rest and avoid activities that aggravate the condition while recovering from plantar fasciitis. This may include cutting back on high-impact exercises or taking a break from certain sports. Consultthe podiatry team at OAA for specific guidance based on your individual case.
Is surgery necessary for plantar fasciitis?
Surgery is typically only considered a last resort when other noninvasive treatments have failed to relieve pain. Most cases of plantar fasciitis can be effectively treated with conservative methods such as rest, stretching exercises, and proper footwear.
