Plantar Fasciitis
You have a thick band of tissue on the bottom of your foot that goes from the toe to the heel bone. This tissue supports your foot arch and helps as a shock absorber when you walk. When it becomes inflamed, your doctor may diagnose you with plantar fasciitis. It’s a common condition, especially in middle-aged adults.
What causes plantar fasciitis?
When the plantar fascia experiences too much pressure or repeatedly gets overstretched, it can cause inflammation. Several factors can make you more likely to get plantar fasciitis. These include:
- Flat feet or high arch
- Being overweight
- Participating in long-distance running, dance aerobics, or ballet
- Wearing shoes with thin soles or poor support
- Standing or walking on hard surfaces for long periods every day
What are the symptoms of plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis most commonly causes pain on the bottom of your foot near your heel — in one or both feet. The pain may develop gradually and is often described as a stabbing pain. You may notice more irritation after standing or walking for a long time. You may also have more pain in the morning.
How will my doctor treat plantar fasciitis?
Most treatment options for plantar fasciitis are non-surgical. After a careful exam and diagnosis, your doctor will recommend treatment, such as:
- Medications or injections to reduce pain and inflammation
- Rest and avoiding activities that irritate your plantar fascia
- Ice applied at least twice a day
- Special shoes or orthotics
- Night splint to stretch the plantar fascia
- Physical therapy and exercises
- Athletic taping to support your foot
- Shock wave therapy to encourage healing
- Surgery when other methods have failed
Even after your plantar fasciitis feels better, it’s important to continue prevention, stretching, proper footwear, and exercises. This can help stop the problem from occurring again and avoid long-term problems with pain and inflammation.