Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that causes pain and discomfort in the heel and the bottom of the foot. Its signs and symptoms typically include:
1. Heel Pain
The most prominent symptom is pain in the heel, usually felt as a sharp, stabbing pain that’s worse with the first steps in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
2. Pain After Rest
Pain often subsides during activity, but can return after periods of rest or prolonged standing.
3. Stiffness
Stiffness and tightness in the bottom of the foot, especially in the morning or after long periods of sitting.
4. Pain that Radiates
Pain might radiate along the arch of the foot, and sometimes even into the calf.
5. Tenderness
The affected area, particularly the inner part of the heel where the plantar fascia attaches to the heel bone, can be tender to touch.
6. Increased Pain with Activity
Prolonged standing, walking, running, or other weight-bearing activities can exacerbate the pain.
Risk Factors
People who are overweight, wear shoes with poor arch support, have high arches or flat feet, or engage in activities that involve repetitive impact on the feet are more prone to developing plantar fasciitis.
Treatment
Treatment for plantar fasciitis usually starts with over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen or naproxen sodium, physical therapy, and supplementary medical gear like splints, shoe inserts, walking boots, or crutches. If the pain persists at a high level, surgical recommendations may include injections, shock wave therapy, or surgery, which is the last option after all other treatments fail.
If you suspect you have plantar fasciitis, give our office a call to set up a consultation to diagnosis and treat your plantar fasciitis. We use our feet and legs every day, and they are very important to getting enough exercise to properly prevent plantar fasciitis and other conditions, so it’s better to address the pain early to avoid complications in the future.
If you or someone you love suffers from plantar fasciitis in the Louisville, Kentucky-area, board certified sports medicine physician Dr. Stacie Grossfeld at Orthopaedic Specialists PLLC can help. Orthopaedic Specialists PLLC is accepting new patients, and same day appointments are available. For additional information or to schedule an appointment, please contact Orthopaedic Specialists PLLC today at 502-212-2663.
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