LA Lakers Pau Gasol was diagnosed with plantar fasciitis; or inflammation of a tendon in the foot’s sole. According to Los Angeles Times Editor Eric Pincus, plantar fasciitis is an injury that can be resolved with treatment and orthotics. Gasol had missed eight games prior due to knee tendinitis. However, Gasol is likely to continue to play despite his condition.
If you are experiencing significant pain in your heels or the ball of your foot, where the plantar fascia is, then it is highly recommended you seek the care of a podiatrist Dr. Neal Mozen of Foot Health Care Associates Dr. Mozen can examine your feet and work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options to ensure safe foot recovery.
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis refers to heel and arch pain caused by an inflammation of the connective tissues on the bottom of the foot.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
- Ill-fitting shoes
- Weight change
- Excessive running
- Non-supportive shoes
- Overpronation
How Can It Be Treated?
- Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices.
- Shockwave therapy – sends sound waves to the areas where pain is experience. Requires multiple sessions. This is used for very persistent cases of plantar fasciitis.
- Ultrasound-guided technique with steroid injections into the plantar fascia. This is from a relatively new and small study, but was shown to be effective in most cases treated.
If you have any questions, please contact our offices in Southfield, MI, Livonia, MI, and Novi, MI. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Read the full article on Platar Fasciitis.