Understanding Plantar Fasciitis

Understanding Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of your plantar fascia. The plantar fascia lines the sole of your feet and connects to the toes. It is important in everyday activities. Furthermore, it helps support your foot arch, and thus, the overall balance of your body. Unfortunately, long periods of standing and ill-fitting shoes can cause plantar fasciitis. Consequently, treating your foot condition involves wearing the proper footwear, massaging and stretching your legs and feet regularly, and icing your feet. Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. So, if you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, consult with one of our podiatrists from Foot HealthCare Associates. Also, our doctors will provide quality care for your feet and help you with understanding plantar fasciitis.

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

First of all, plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot. And, this band, the plantar fascia, causes mild to severe heel pain.

Understanding Plantar Fasciitis Causes

  • Excessive running
  • Non-supportive shoes
  • Overpronation
  • Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

Treatments

  • Conservative measures – First of all, patients can use anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, or orthotic devices.
  • Shockwave therapy – In addition, doctors send sound waves to the affected area to facilitate healing in chronic cases of plantar fasciitis.
  • Surgery – And finally, surgery which doctors only use as a last resort when all else fails. Surgeons can surgically detach the plantar fascia from the heel.

Above all, while very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. For that reason, podiatrists recommend speaking to your doctor right away to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Fortunately, your podiatrist can work with you to help you with understanding plantar fasciitis. And most importantly, your podiatrist can provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

So, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs. Visit one of the best foot and ankle surgeons in Novi today.