Items filtered by date: May 2024

Plantar fasciitis is a foot condition characterized by inflammation and degeneration of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, connecting the heel to the toes. This condition often develops gradually over time, resulting from repetitive strain and stress on the plantar fascia. Activities that involve prolonged standing, walking, or running, especially on hard surfaces, can worsen the problem. Additionally, factors such as obesity, tight calf muscles, high arches, flat feet, and non-supportive footwear can increase the risk of developing plantar fasciitis. Symptoms include heel pain, particularly in the morning or after periods of inactivity, which can worsen with activity. While plantar fasciitis can be challenging to manage, various treatment options, including rest, stretching exercises, orthotic devices, and in severe cases, corticosteroid injections or surgery, can help alleviate pain and promote healing. If you have persistent heel pain, it is strongly suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat the cause.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists  from Advanced Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Newburg and Jeffersontown, KY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Plantar heel pain in older adults is commonly caused by plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot. It can become inflamed, especially due to wear and tear over the years. Other factors contributing to plantar heel pain include being overweight, which puts extra stress on the plantar fascia, and wearing shoes that lack adequate support and cushioning. As one ages, fat pad elasticity beneath the heel can also decrease, contributing to pain while walking or standing. A podiatrist, or foot doctor, might recommend exercises to stretch the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon, the use of orthotic devices to provide proper foot support, and anti-inflammatory medications as treatment. In some cases, a podiatrist may suggest more intensive treatments, like steroid injections. Wearing proper footwear that provides good arch support and cushioning can also help to alleviate symptoms and prevent further episodes of pain. If you are struggling with heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an evaluation and treatment options. 

Many people suffer from bouts of heel pain. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Advanced Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Causes of Heel Pain

Heel pain is often associated with plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissues that extends along the bottom of the foot. A rip or tear in this ligament can cause inflammation of the tissue.

Achilles tendonitis is another cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the Achilles tendon will cause pain from fractures and muscle tearing. Lack of flexibility is also another symptom.

Heel spurs are another cause of pain. When the tissues of the plantar fascia undergo a great deal of stress, it can lead to ligament separation from the heel bone, causing heel spurs.

Why Might Heel Pain Occur?

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes                  
• Wearing non-supportive shoes
• Weight change           
• Excessive running

Treatments

Heel pain should be treated as soon as possible for immediate results. Keeping your feet in a stress-free environment will help. If you suffer from Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, applying ice will reduce the swelling. Stretching before an exercise like running will help the muscles. Using all these tips will help make heel pain a condition of the past.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Newburg and Taylorsville, KY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.