If your morning starts with a searing pain in the heel of your foot as you take your first few steps, you’re familiar with the symptoms of plantar fasciitis. Classified as an overuse injury, this condition results from the fascia that joins your heel to your toes has become inflamed. Plantar Fasciitis is treatable, often without the need for surgery. At Appalachian Foot & Ankle Associates, we provide a full range of treatment options for patients experiencing this condition.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
While the root cause of plantar fasciitis is inflammation of the fascia in your foot, your risk of developing this condition can be brought on by a variety of factors. Significant amounts of time spent standing or walking on unyielding surfaces, such as working in a warehouse or retail job, is the leading source. Patients who carry excess weight, are female, or frequently walk or run for exercise are at an increased risk of developing it. Those with foot issues, including high arches or flat feet, are also more prone to the condition.
What Are The Symptoms Of Plantar Fasciitis?
The first sign of plantar fasciitis is soreness in the heel bone that is commonly known as a ‘stone bruise.’ This name is derived from the similarity to the pain experienced when one steps sharply on a hard stone with their heel. Onset typically occurs following a period of exercise, rather than during it, or after waking in the morning or getting up from a seated position. Failure to seek treatment for plantar fasciitis can result in it developing into a chronic condition. This can include an inability to maintain your preferred level of activity and additional problems in the hip, knee, and back resulting from changes in how you walk.
How Can Plantar Fasciitis Be Treated Non-Surgically?
The most common method of non-surgical treatment involves a stretching routine combined with resting the foot until the related inflammation goes away. Applying ice for 20 minutes to the area every 6 to 8 hours can help ease the symptoms. As the source of the condition is inflammation, NSAIDs like Naproxen Sodium or Ibuprofen can bring some relief. Our team of podiatry experts at Appalachian Foot & Ankle will help guide you through the stretching exercises before attempting more invasive procedures. When stretching proves ineffective or insufficient, steroidal anti-inflammatory medication may be injected into your heel. If both of these treatment options fail to treat your condition, surgery may be advised.
If you’ve been struggling with symptoms associated with plantar fasciitis and are hoping to find relief, call our offices today at 1-828-277-8042 to schedule an appointment. Our team of friendly staff is ready to help you prepare for your visit by filling out the necessary paperwork and letting you know what you need to bring with you. Don’t let your foot pain continue causing you pain, come see us at our Marion or Asheville locations in North Carolina. Plantar fasciitis doesn’t have to be a lifelong sentence; we can help you get back to your active lifestyle!
