Javier Soto, an avid runner from Texas A&M International University, had his career halted due to a battle with plantar fasciitis. With the help of a few stretches, he was able to ease his pain. Place your heel on the ground and your toes on top of a curb or against a wall and lean forward to ease the pressure in your heels. When you sit down and take off your shoes and socks, pull your big toe inward to stretch the fascia. Using a belt or long elastic band to pull your toes back can also stretch the calves and fascia to relieve tension. To strengthen your feet, try picking up marbles with your toes, one by one.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. Marc R. Frankel of The Frankel Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will diagnose and treat your foot and ankle needs.
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.
Relieve Your Plantar Fasciitis Today
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices in Milford, PA, Middletown, NY, and Warwick, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
