Conquering Plantar Fasciitis, One Step at a Time

Learn about this common foot ailment and what you can do about it

No matter how different we are, there are things nearly everyone experiences; most people who spend a certain amount of time on their feet inevitably encounter pain or discomfort. And while the occasional ache is to be expected, more serious conditions demand attention. One of these issues is plantar fasciitis.

What is plantar fasciitis?

The thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your feet is called the plantar fascia, and when it becomes painful and inflamed, it’s known as plantar fasciitis. The condition is usually characterized by a throbbing or stabbing pain. Runners are especially susceptible to plantar fasciitis, and it’s also common in individuals who are overweight and those who wear shoes that don’t have the right support. To alleviate the condition, follow these steps:

Wear supportive footwear

The best way to treat plantar fasciitis is to avoid it in the first place, and you can up your chances by maintaining a healthy weight and making sure to wear the right shoes. Often-used footwear should have a low heel and adequate arch supports – if you frequently sport high heels or flip-flops, you’re putting yourself at risk for the condition.

Put your feet up

If you do start to have pain in your feet, try to get off of them as much as possible. If you’re a runner, think about running for shorter periods. Consider switching to low-impact activities like swimming or bike riding to stay active. And don’t walk around barefoot, particularly if you have hardwood floors, as this can exacerbate the problem.

Relieve the pain

There are some easy things you can do for the pain, including applying ice for about 15 minutes a few times each day. Over-the-counter drugs like Aleve and Advil will also help reduce discomfort. And if you suspect that your shoes are the problem, think about getting a new pair or adding insoles.

Try stretching and strengthening exercises

Plantar fascia becomes painful if musculature is too tight or weak, but you can remedy this with certain exercises that target the plantar fascia, calf, and Achilles tendon. If you can’t ease the pain on your own, it could be time to consult a professional for treatment, which may include myofascial release therapy.

Seek additional help

If you try these tactics and nothing seems to work, your doctor will help you find a solution. This could consist of corticosteroids, a boot cast, a night splint to stretch your foot while sleeping, or custom orthotics. If there’s still a problem, your doctor may recommend surgery, though this isn’t a very common scenario.

Do you suspect that you’re suffering from plantar fasciitis? To find out for sure, get in touch with our office. We’ll give you a thorough exam to identify the issue and then find a way to alleviate your pain. Give us a call at 954-452-4590 or contact us through our online form to set up an appointment.

Dr. Nina L. Coletta has been practicing Podiatry for over twenty years. Her practice remains on the cutting edge of advancements in Podiatric Medicine, providing state-of-the-art laser treatments, three-dimensional technology to construct custom orthotics and braces, and in-house arterial and venous studies of the lower extremity. From pediatrics to geriatrics, her staff provides superior care in a warm, welcoming environment.