Plantar Fasciitis

The plantar fascia is a band of tissue that extends from the front of the heel bone (calcaneus) to the ball of the foot, similar to a tendon (metatarsals). This dense strip of tissue functions as a rubber band to absorb shock when you walk, helping to support the arch of your foot.

When the foot is on the ground, the plantar fascia bears the brunt of the body's weight. As the arch of the foot tries to flatten due to the weight of the body, this force stretches the tissue. This puts strain on the plantar fascia, which connects the heel bone to the toes. Fascia rips can occur in small amounts. The body, on the other hand, usually heals these tears.

Inflammation of the plantar fascia occurs as the damage and recovery process repeats repeatedly, culminating in plantar fasciitis/fasciosis.

Symptoms

Symptoms that are frequently linked with this condition involve:

Pain when getting out of bed in the morning or after sitting for long periods of time.
Pain that persists throughout the day.
Heel soreness from standing for lengthy periods of time.
Pain that gradually worsens over time.

A thorough clinical examination by a podiatrist is essential to determine the best treatment option. To aid the examination, diagnostic imaging such as X-rays and ultrasounds may be ordered.

Treatment

Plantar fasciitis must be treated as soon as possible in order to build an effective treatment strategy. The following are some of the treatment options available at The Podiatry Clinic:

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) – assist decrease pain and inflammation.
Rest Ice and elevation–twenty-five minutes every two hours is recommended in the first forty-eight hours following the injury.
Stretching and exercise programs are suggested to assist improve the range of motion, mobility, and stability of the foot and ankle joints.
To alleviate biomechanical abnormalities and reduce the strain on the Achilles Tendon, custom foot orthotics may be recommended.
Steroid injections may be used to relieve discomfort and to speed up the healing process.

Referral for shockwave therapy or surgical treatment may be necessary in extreme situations.