Signs of Plantar Fasciitis and Treatment Options
Dr. Brad Dresher, MD • April 6, 2020
Signs of Plantar Fasciitis and Treatment Options
Plantar Fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. It involves inflammation of the thick band of tissue (plantar fascia) that runs across the bottom of your foot and connects the heel bone to your toes. This painful condition can inhibit your daily life and activities. You can learn the signs of plantar fasciitis and start treatment at home.
Signs of Plantar Fasciitis
Before discussing treatment options, you must first understand the signs of plantar fasciitis. This condition occurs when small tears accrue in the tissue band from any of the following issues:
- Wearing shoes that are too hard
- Bad habits when running
- Flat feet
- High arch without proper support in shoes
- Being overweight
- Standing for long periods
While some signs of plantar fasciitis are due to genetics, many can be prevented or treated with good home care.
Plantar Fasciitis Prevention
There are many things you can do to prevent plantar fasciitis including:
- Wear shoes with good support
- Replace tennis shoes often
- Avoid walking on hard surfaces barefoot
- Keep a healthy weight
- Low-impact exercise like swimming or walking
- Avoid high-impact exercise such as running
- Stretch your legs and feet
Whether you lead an active lifestyle or spend much of your time at home, these things can help prevent the signs of plantar fasciitis from developing.
Plantar Fasciitis Treatment
If you already have plantar fasciitis, there are non-invasive ways to treat it. These include:
- Rest
- Ice the bottom of the foot
- Stretching
- Physical therapy
- Orthotics
- Night braces
We always suggest you start with home care and other minimally invasive treatments for the signs of plantar fasciitis before seeking the help of a doctor.
When should you talk to a physician?
If the pain persists after several months you should schedule a visit with Dr. Dresher, a trained foot and ankle specialist. Your foot pain may be caused by underlying issues such as a bone spur rubbing on the tissue or a stress fracture. At the time of your exam, Dr. Dresher may request an X-ray or an MRI
to better understand what is causing your pain. Surgery is rarely necessary for plantar fasciitis treatment unless there is a secondary condition like a bone spur. Dr. Dresher
can assess your condition and make a plan to treat the signs of plantar fasciitis that you are experiencing. For more information about Colorado Springs Orthopaedic Group, or to schedule an appointment, please call (719) 632-7669.
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