Plantar Fasciitis Specialist

What are the symptoms of plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis primarily causes heel pain. It can also cause:

• Pain throughout the sole or arch of your foot
• Increased pain with standing or walking
• Pain that’s worse when getting out of bed
• Tightness or tension in the sole of your foot

Plantar fasciitis may be related to heel spurs, though not all people with heel spurs also have plantar fasciitis. 

Most cases only affect one foot though it’s possible to have symptoms in both feet, especially if you stand for long periods at work, participate in activities that involve running, or wear ill-fitting shoes.

What causes plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia in the sole of your foot. The plantar fascia is a band of tight, dense connective tissue that supports the muscles of the arch of your foot. 

It becomes inflamed when the tissue is repeatedly stretched and irritated as the arch of the foot flattens when standing or walking. 

Plantar fasciitis typically occurs in men and women between the ages of 40-65 and may be related to excess body weight, inactivity, and pounding of the soles of the feet during activities like running. 

Plantar fasciitis can become chronic if left untreated. Severe cases may feel like the soles of your feet are being cut or torn when you stand or walk. The sooner you get treatment from the team, the sooner your feet can begin feeling better.

How is plantar fasciitis diagnosed?

At Texas Foot & Ankle Specialists, the team performs thorough podiatric exams and X-ray imaging, if needed. 

During your consultation and exam, your podiatrist asks about your symptoms and examines your feet for signs of inflammation, stiffness, and muscle tension. Based on their findings, your provider explains your diagnosis and treatment options.

How is plantar fasciitis treated?

In most cases of plantar fasciitis, conservative care over several weeks can relieve the pain. Your podiatrist can recommend a variety of treatments like:

• Stretches for the feet and calves
• Strengthening exercises to support the muscles of the arch of your foot
• Bracing or splints to be worn at night
• Self-massage or rolling the arch of the foot over a ball
• Ice
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications

For severe cases, injections and extracorporeal shock wave treatment may be recommended.

To discuss plantar fasciitis treatment options, call Texas Foot & Ankle Specialists, PLLC or schedule a consultation online now.