WHAT IS PLANTAR FASCIITIS?
The plantar fascia is a ligament or a band-like structure that runs from the heel to the ball of the foot. The plantar fascia functions to support the arch when standing and walking. The plantar fascia can be injured if the foot changes shape or is put under a lot of strain. This will cause the ligament to become inflamed or swollen causing pain in the heel and/or the arch.
CAUSES
Plantar fasciitis is often caused by changes to the foot mechanics or the way the foot functions. If the arch collapses or falls too much, it puts additional strain on the plantar fascia. If the arch does not collapse enough, this can cause contracture of the ligaments. Both will result in pain in the heel and/or the arch.
SYMPTOMS
With plantar fasciitis, there will be pain in the heel and/or the arch especially in the morning, standing from a seated position or after standing for long periods of time.
TESTING
There are other conditions that can present with heel pain such as fractures, bursitis, neuritis, bone tumors, growth plate injuries, and Achilles tendonitis. The doctor might do additional testing such as an ultrasound or x-rays to diagnose plantar fasciitis.
TREATMENTS
Plantar fasciitis usually resolves with stretching the calf and hamstring muscles, changing to more supportive shoe gear, orthotics, icing and topical pain creams.
TREATMENT YOUR DOCTOR MAY RECOMMEND.
Most patients that see the doctor for heel pain have already tried most at home remedies without improvement. Additional treatments we can provide for plantar fasciitis include steroid injections, custom orthotics, strapping, splinting,shock wave therapy and possible surgery.
