Plantar fasciitis is a foot condition that can cause pain and discomfort. The most common symptom of plantar fasciitis is persistent heel pain. Left untreated, plantar fasciitis can become worse and lead to chronic foot problems. Dr. Michael Cherella and Dr. Kyle Shaw, the experienced podiatrists at Mullica Hill Foot and Ankle in Mullica Hill, NJ, can develop a customized treatment plan to help you heal from plantar fasciitis.
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Running along the bottom of the foot from the heel to toes is a thick band of connective tissue called the plantar fascia. This band of tissue supports the arch, stabilizes the foot, and provides shock absorption. Plantar fasciitis is a condition in which the plantar fascia band of tissue becomes inflamed, stretched, or torn. Repeated stretching, daily wear and tear, and increased pressure on the feet can result in small tears in the plantar fascia tissue, which can lead to swelling, inflammation, and pain.
Several factors can lead to the development of this painful foot condition. Common causes include:
- Being overweight
- Long-distance running
- Spending long hours on the feet
- Activities that put stress on the heels (e.g., ballet & certain sports)
- Wearing shoes without adequate support
- Overpronation or an irregular gait
Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis
Heel pain is one of the most common symptoms of plantar fasciitis. Some individuals might also experience pain along the arches. Additionally, the pain tends to be more intense in the morning or after extended periods of sitting or standing when the feet haven’t had a chance to stretch. Without treatment, plantar fasciitis can become worse over time and the pain can become increasingly more intense. The skilled podiatrists at our office in Mullica Hill, NJ, can evaluate your symptoms to determine if you have plantar fasciitis.
Treatments for Plantar Fasciitis
Seeking treatment for plantar fasciitis is essential to prevent the condition from becoming worse and leading to chronic pain and inflammation. One way to alleviate the pain and discomfort of plantar fasciitis is to gently stretch or flex the feet throughout the day, especially if you sit or stand for extended periods for work or school. The plantar fascia tissue can tighten up and stretching helps relax it. It is also best to limit involvement in physical activities while the feet are healing. Some common methods for treating plantar fasciitis include:
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Applying ice to the heels/feet
- Custom orthotic shoe inserts
- Removable walking cast
- Padding and strapping
- Physical therapy
- Night splints
The pain and discomfort of plantar fasciitis can make it difficult to go about your daily routine, but there are ways to treat the condition. For help treating your plantar fasciitis, schedule an appointment with Dr. Cherella or Dr. Shaw, our knowledgeable podiatrists, by calling Mullica Hill Foot and Ankle in Mullica Hill, NJ, at (856) 223-9939.