Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is a painful foot and ankle condition commonly seen in long-distance runners. Characterized by a stabbing sensation that’s typically most intense in the mornings, it can eventually lead to debilitating chronic heel pain.
What causes Plantar Fasciitis?
One or more of the following factors can result in Plantar fasciitis:
- Obesity
- Very high arches
- Exercising on hard surfaces
- New or increased activity
- Tight calf muscles
- Overstretching the foot
- Wearing shoes with too little cushioning
- Certain types of exercise
- Excess weight
- Foot mechanics
- Prolonged standing
Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis
Individuals with Plantar Fasciitis typically experience the following symptoms:
- Gradual or sudden pain after jumping or missing a step
- Pain that’s most intense in the mornings or after periods of inactivity
- A stabbing or bruised sensation
- Pain in the arch of the foot
- Stiffness or tightness in the arch of the foot or in the Achilles tendon
- Swelling or redness around the heel
Diagnosing Plantar Fasciitis
The Orthohealing Center is committed to providing patients with a conclusive diagnosis of their respective conditions or injuries. To do this, an initial physical and verbal intake will be conducted. During this process, patients are asked how the injury was sustained and about the severity, duration, and frequency of symptoms. The affected region is examined for tender areas / pain, reflexes, strength, and range of motion. Our physicians frequently order advanced imaging studies such as MRI or ultrasound to assess baseline status and monitor treatment results.
Nonsurgical Treatment for Plantar Fasciitis
It’s our goal to reduce pain and inflammation and restore normal sensation, stability, function, and range of motion when treating Plantar Fasciitis in the ankle and foot. We offer a comprehensive array of nonsurgical approaches to address associated debilitating symptoms. Our physicians may recommend one or a combination of the following therapies including, but not limited to:
