What is Plantar Fasciitis?
The plantar fascia is a wide band of fibrous tissue running along the bottom of the foot. It attaches at the bottom of the heel bone and extends to the forefoot. Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation that occurs when the plantar fascia is excessively stretched. The result is the most common type of all heel pain.
Causes
- Excessive stretching of the plantar fascia may be caused by improperly fitting footwear
- excessive weight on the arch of the foot
- a sudden change in activity or activity level
- a high arch, or flat feet.
Symptoms
Plantar fasciitis is usually signaled by pain on the bottom of the foot where the heel and the arch come together. Often severe after the plantar fascia contracts back to its original shape during a night’s sleep or long rest, the pain lessens as the plantar fascia stretches when a person is up and walking.
Diagnosis
A diagnosis of plantar fasciitis is usually the result of a medical history and physical examination.
Treatment
The treatment for plantar fasciitis is determined by the cause behind the excessive stretching of the plantar fascia. Orthotics, heel cradles and cups, and shoes with cushioned heels might be part of the treatment. In addition, night splints and stretching exercises might be advised.
Prevention
- To reduce the chances of stretching the plantar fascia, running on uneven or hard surfaces should be avoided.
- Shoes and/or orthotics that support the arch should be worn.
- If weight is an issue, effort should be made to reduce.
If you experience symptoms of plantar fasciitis, Dr. Jeffrey Burmeister, DPM, and his experienced staff are ready to fully diagnose, treat, and see you on your way to pain-free living. Schedule an appointment by completing an online appointment request at www.jacksonvillefootandlaser.com/contact.html or by calling (904) 765-8889.
