Heel Pain? You May Have Plantar Fasciitis and Here’s What You Can Do About It

Do you have heel pain? You may have plantar fasciitis. This is a common foot condition that can cause a lot of pain and discomfort. In this article, we will discuss what plantar fasciitis is, the symptoms, and how you can treat it. We will also provide some tips on how to prevent plantar fasciitis from occurring in the first place.

 

Symptoms

Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the plantar fascia—the band of tissue that extends from your heel to the base of your toes. The main symptom is pain in the heel and bottom of your foot that can be quite severe. Other symptoms include swelling, redness, stiffness, and tenderness.

 

Causes

The cause of plantar fasciitis can vary but it is often seen in people who have jobs or activities that involve standing for long periods of time on hard surfaces. It can also affect people with flat feet or high arches, as well as those with certain physical conditions such as obesity or diabetes.

 

Treatment

Treating plantar fasciitis requires a combination of rest, stretching, and icing. It is important to take a break from activities that cause pain, such as running or walking long distances, as well as any activity that involves standing for long periods of time on hard surfaces. Resting your foot by elevating it and wearing comfortable shoes can also help alleviate symptoms.

 

Stretching exercises are essential for helping to alleviate pain associated with plantar fasciitis. You should focus on stretching the calf muscles and the plantar fascia itself. A physical therapist or doctor can show you how to perform these stretches correctly. Icing the heel area several times per day can also help reduce inflammation and pain.

 

In addition to rest, stretching, and icing, there are other treatments available if symptoms persist. These include orthotic devices, night splints, and steroid injections. You may also want to try over-the-counter pain medications or anti-inflammatory drugs. If these treatments are not working, you should talk to your doctor about further medical intervention such as surgery.

 

Prevention

Preventing plantar fasciitis is the best way to avoid having to deal with it in the first place. Wearing shoes with good arch support, maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding activities that involve long periods of standing can help keep the feet healthy and free from pain. It is also important to stretch before any physical activity involving your feet and ankles. These practices will give you the best chance at avoiding this common foot condition.

 

If you are experiencing heel pain and believe you may have plantar fasciitis, talk to your doctor about the best treatment for your specific situation.

 

At Spring + Heights Hospital in Spring, Texas, the podiatry specialists offer comprehensive care for a wide variety of foot and ankle conditions. They provide on-site diagnostic testing to pinpoint the cause of your pain and customize treatments to your needs. With the right care, you can get back on your feet and reduce any associated discomfort. Call Spring + Heights Hospital for more information.