Plantar fasciitis develops when the band of tissue along the bottom of the foot becomes irritated. This broad ligament, called the plantar fascia, connects the heel bone to the toes and helps support the arch. Pain is felt beneath the heel and can be sharp with the first steps after getting out of bed. It may ease after movement, then return after long periods of standing. Stiffness and swelling can also occur. Although heel spurs can appear on X-rays, they are not always responsible for the pain.
Repeated strain can stress the plantar fascia and cause irritation. A sudden increase in running or walking can contribute to this problem. Other factors include rapid weight gain, tight calf muscles, and long periods of time spent standing. Flat feet or very high arches can change how pressure moves through the foot. Shoes that lack proper support can add further strain. Plantar fasciitis can affect one or both feet. Discomfort can interfere with work, exercise, and movement. Similar heel pain can result from a stress fracture or nerve irritation, so an accurate diagnosis is important.
A chiropodist can examine the area, check foot movement, and assess the way a patient stands and walks. The examination considers arch shape, calf tightness, and pressure beneath the heel. Imaging tests are not always required, but it can help rule out another cause when symptoms or examination findings are unusual. Treatment includes foot care and guidance on activity changes. A chiropodist can recommend fitted shoes and provide orthotics to reduce strain. Other options can include taping or a night splint, based on the patient's needs. Follow-up visits allow the chiropodist to review progress and adjust the treatment plan. If you have symptoms of plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Plantar fasciitis can be painful and interfere with your daily activities. If you are experiencing foot or heel pain and believe you may be afflicted with plantar fasciitis, please consult with one of the specialists from Thornhill Foot Clinic. Our chiropodists will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis refers to the inflammation of the plantar fascia, a ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot and connects the heel bone to the toes. Repetitive activities, such as running or jumping, can injure the plantar fascia over time. Plantar fasciitis can also be caused by flat feet, high arches, pregnancy, and activities that put excessive pressure on your feet, like standing all day for work. When the plantar fascia becomes inflamed, it causes pain and discomfort.
Symptoms
Typical symptoms of plantar fasciitis include:
- Stabbing pain near the heel
- Pain that is worst in the morning or after a period of rest
- Pain that increases after exercising
- Swelling
- Tightness in the Achilles tendon
Diagnosis
Plantar fasciitis is typically diagnosed via medical history and physical examination.
Treatment
Treatments for plantar fasciitis include resting and icing the affected foot, stretching the foot, taking medications to reduce inflammation, and wearing orthotics. In severe cases where pain does not improve with conservative treatments, injections or surgery may be recommended.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Vaughan, ON .
