Plantar fasciitis is a condition that causes foot pain. The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue that supports the arch of your foot. It connects the heel to the ball of the foot. If your first few steps out of bed in the morning cause severe pain in the heel of your foot, you may have this condition or an overuse injury that affects the sole of the foot. If you are diagnosed with plantar fasciitis you may have inflamed the tough, fibrous band of tissue (fascia) connecting your heel bone to the base of your toes. If this is the case, our providers at Beyond Podiatry can help alleviate your pain and get you back on your feet.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis and Heel Concerns
Plantar fasciitis is a chronic condition that leads to lingering foot and heel pain. It’s caused by inflammation of your plantar fascia, the long band of connective tissues that link your toes to your heel bone. While anyone of any age can develop this condition, it most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40-60, especially if you work in a field that requires you to be on your feet all day. Your plantar fascia can become inflamed because of:
- Heel spurs
- Flat feet
- High arches
- Excess body weight
Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis
This condition leads to severe, stabbing foot and heel pain, although the discomfort you feel generally occurs after long periods of rest. For instance, sufferers usually explain that their condition flares up first thing in the morning, or after sitting for long periods. Soreness and tenderness from this condition can also flare up after long periods of activity. You’re more likely to have plantar fasciitis pain after exercise, but not during exercise.
Treatment Options
At Beyond Podiatry, we offer a combination of treatments to address your current flare-up, while also preventing future discomfort. If these conservative plantar fasciitis therapies aren’t effective for you, or if your heel pain is worsening, it might be time to consider surgery. Our treatment options include:
- Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT)
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Custom orthotic inserts
- Cortisone injections
- Corrective shoes
Treating Plantar Fasciitis in Michigan, Illinois, & Kentucky
Between dozens of bones and joints, in addition to multiple connective tissues, a lot of issues can arise that can lead to chronic foot and heel pain. Our leading podiatrists at Beyond Podiatry offer modern treatment solutions for all causes of foot and heel pain, including plantar fasciitis and heel spurs. Book your appointment at your closest location by using the online scheduler or by phone.