Plantar Fasciitis

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis occurs when the tissue in the bottom of the foot becomes inflamed, resulting in heel pain. Although this condition commonly affects runners, it can affect anyone who places too much pressure on this band of tissue. When this condition is left untreated, it can end up causing chronic heel pain that affects everyday activities.

What are the Signs of Plantar Fasciitis?

Symptoms of plantar fasciitis include sharp pain that affects the bottom of the foot in the heel area. This pain usually flares up when getting out of bed in the morning or when standing or walking after sitting for long periods of time. Plantar fasciitis pain can also become worse after exercising.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis develops when there is increased stress on this band of tissue in the bottom of the foot. This tissue is responsible for providing the arches of the feet with support by absorbing shock. When there is too much pressure or stress, this fascia can develop tears and inflammation. While the underlying cause of plantar fasciitis isn’t known, certain risk factors make some individuals more likely to get it. These risk factors include being between 40-60 years old, running and other activities that strain the heel, being obese, standing for several hours, and having flat feet.

How is Plantar Fasciitis Diagnosed?

Diagnosing plantar fasciitis involves conducting a physical exam of the affected foot and checking for sore or tender areas. The location of this pain helps determine what is causing it. X-rays and magnetic resonance imaging tests provide detailed images of the bottom of the foot and the structures inside it.

What are the Treatment Options for Plantar Fasciitis?

Nonsurgical treatment options for plantar fasciitis include rest, ice, stretches, over-the-counter pain relievers, shockwave therapy and physical therapy. Other forms of treatment include wearing orthotics for more support and wearing splints at night to stretch the foot arch during sleep. Steroid injections can provide relief for plantar fasciitis symptoms in conjunction with treating the underlying biomechanics that cause the problem. Surgery is an option when symptoms are severe and other treatments are ineffective.