What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is a foot condition associated with pain in the heels and arches. The condition occurs when the plantar fascia tissues that stretch from the heels to the base of the toes become inflamed. The pain and discomfort caused by plantar fasciitis can interfere with your ability to comfortably walk and move about throughout the day. If you have plantar fasciitis, the experienced podiatrists at Southern Maryland Foot & Ankle in California can develop a treatment plan to help your feet recover. 

Causes 

A common cause of plantar fasciitis is overpronation. Individuals who overpronate when stepping tend to roll their feet inward. This inward rolling motion causes the feet to flatten, which stretches out the arches and puts tension on the plantar fascia tissues. Over time, the tension on the plantar fascia tissues can lead to inflammation, as well as foot pain and discomfort. 

In addition to overpronation, plantar fasciitis can be caused by other factors as well. Some additional causes of this foot condition include:

• Standing for extended periods
• Being overweight 
• Extensive walking
• Daily stress on the feet
• Long-distance running
• High-impact workouts 

Symptoms 

Plantar fasciitis is associated with several symptoms, including heel pain and painful arches. The pain also tends to be more intense first thing in the morning. More severe pain early in the day is usually a result of the feet not having a chance to stretch out all night. The pain often diminishes once an individual is up and walking about. 

Another symptom of the condition is that heel and arch pain can be more severe after sitting down for an extended period. Stretching the feet by walking around often helps lessen the pain. Finally, the pain and discomfort of plantar fasciitis can worsen over time if the condition is not treated. Within a few months, pain that was initially mild can become significantly more intense. One of the skilled podiatrists at our office in California can help you find relief from foot pain due to plantar fasciitis. 

Treatments

Plantar fasciitis can be treated through several methods. Some steps you can take on your own to alleviate the pain and discomfort of plantar fasciitis include applying ice to the feet, and limiting physical activities, such as running, while the feet heel. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications can also alleviate any pain and discomfort you might be experiencing. 

Several more advanced treatment options are available at our podiatry office in California where a podiatrist can make specific treatment recommendations. Some options include prescription anti-inflammatory medications, custom orthotic shoe inserts, stretching exercises, and physical therapy. Additional treatment methods include a removable walking cast, padding and strapping, and the use of a night splint to keep the foot stretched while sleeping, which can reduce morning pain. Severe or persistent heel pain can be treated with Extracorporeal Shock Wave Treatment (ESWT). 

If you are dealing with plantar fasciitis, we can help. To discuss treatment options with one of our knowledgeable podiatrists, call Southern Maryland Foot & Ankle in California at (301) 690-6044. Appointments are also available at our Clinton office by calling (301) 868-3899, or our office in Waldorf by calling (301) 843-9581.