Have you experienced intense pain at the bottom of the heel of your foot? You may suffer from a foot injury called plantar fasciitis. This condition can be debilitating, impacting your ability to walk and perform your usual activities.
A podiatrist can evaluate the structure of your foot and provide treatment to alleviate these agonizing symptoms. Newtown Foot and Ankle Specialists, a podiatrist office located in Newtown, PA, responds to frequently asked questions about the painful foot condition plantar fasciitis.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis refers to the inflammation and irritation of a band of tissue on the foot called the plantar fascia. This area lies on the bottom of the foot, connecting the heel to the front of the foot and supporting your arch.
This part of the foot absorbs stress as we put pressure on our feet. But too much strain may tear or damage the tissue. This causes inflammation that results in pain and stiffness in the heel.
Plantar fasciitis stands out from other types of foot pain in that it often occurs during moments of rest after walking or other physical activity. Your foot doctor will evaluate the range of motion, tenderness, and arch shape of your foot to diagnose this condition. Diagnostic imaging may be used to rule out other causes of your foot pain.
How Will My Doctor Treat This Foot Pain?
Your foot doctor will recommend several treatments for foot pain related to plantar fasciitis that you can complete at home. They will first suggest that you stop activities that worsen this pain, including exercise like running, in which your feet hit hard surfaces.
A podiatrist will also recommend specified stretches that can help relax and loosen the muscles in the feet and calves that can affect your condition. Ice and anti-inflammatory medication can help you alleviate painful symptoms.
Almost all patients will notice an improvement in their condition using non-invasive treatments. However, if symptoms persist for more than a year, your podiatrist may consider surgical options.
Can I Prevent Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis usually forms without a specified reason, so it can be difficult to prevent this type of injury. Podiatry experts have recognized several factors that could increase the risk of developing this condition, including high foot arches, obesity, and a change in physical activity, especially repetitive or high-impact exercises. If you are concerned about developing foot pain, you can schedule a consultation with your podiatrist for advice related to your unique medical situation.
Learn More from Your Foot Doctor in Newtown, PA
Newtown Foot and Ankle Specialists provide podiatry services, like orthotics, shockwave therapy, and nail treatments, to patients in Newtown, PA. If you experience pain in your feet, ankles, or toes, reach out to our doctors as soon as you can. To schedule a consultation with our practice, contact our staff online or reach us by phone at 215.234.3772.