(Plantar Fasciitis)
Heel pain is most often caused by plantar fasciitis. Heel pain may also be due to other causes, such as a stress fracture, tendonitis, arthritis, nerve irritation or, rarely, a cyst. Because there are several potential causes, it is important to have heel pain properly diagnosed. If you have heel pain. Dr. Fisher will do a thorough examination to distunguish between all the possibilities and to determine the underlying source of your heel pain.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the band of tissue (the plantar fascia) that extends from the heel to the toes. In this condition, the fascia first becomes irritated and then inflamed, resulting in heel pain.
Causes
The most common cause of plantar fasciitis relates to faulty structure or movement within the foot. For example, people who have exessively high arches or flat feet are more prone to developing plantar fasciitis. Wearing non-supportive footwear puts abnormal strain on the plantar fascia and can also lead to plantar fasciitis. Obesity and overuse may also contribute to plantar fasciitis.
Symptoms
The symptoms of plantar fasciitis are:
- Pain on the bottom of the heel
- Pain in the arch of the foot
- Pain that is usually worse upon arising
- Pain that increases over a period of months
- Swelling on the bottom of the heel
People with plantar fasciitis often describe the pain as worse when they get up in the morning or after they have been sitting for long periods of time. After a few minutes of walking, the pain decreases because walking stretches the fascia. For some people, the pain subsides but returns after spending long periods of time on their feet.
Treament
Dr. Fisher has years of experience in treating plantar fasciitis and in most cases, his patients are cured of the condition using non-surgical methods. A small percentage of patients may require surgery. If, after several months of non-surgical treatment, you continue to have heel pain, surgery will be considered. Dr. Fisher’s surgical technique uses a very small incision to release a portion of the fascia, allowing the foot to heel and finally become pain-free.
If you have heel pain, don’t just put up with it. Make an appointment with us today and let your healing begin!