Plantar fasciitis, otherwise known as heel pain, can become debilitating if not treated immediately. According to J Athletic Training 2008, plantar fasciitis affects “15% of all pro athletes at some point in their career.” Plantar fasciitis can occur as pain affecting the plantar fascia tissue, and impacts physical activity during the mornings. Athletes will feel the pain of plantar fasciitis after prolonged physical activity. Treatments for plantar fasciitis involve controlling inflammation, stretching, and wearing comfortable footwear that will accommodate the athlete’s feet and condition.
Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you have any concerns about your feet contact Dr. Marc R. Frankel of The Frankel Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctors will 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.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Milford, PA, Warwick, NY, and Middletown, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.
