Plantar Faciitis
Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that causes pain and discomfort in the heel. It occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue supporting the foot arch, becomes inflamed or irritated. If you’re experiencing heel pain and suspect plantar fasciitis, seeking professional help is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment.
At Foot & Ankle Associates of Greater Pittsburgh, our experienced podiatrists specialize in the comprehensive management of plantar fasciitis. Here we will discuss the condition, its causes, symptoms, and the effective treatment options available at our practice.
Understanding Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis commonly develops due to repetitive strain or overuse of the plantar fascia. This can occur due to various factors, including:
- Overpronation: Individuals with flat feet or high arches are prone to overpronation, a condition in which the foot rolls inward excessively during walking or running. Overpronation can strain the plantar fascia, leading to inflammation and pain.
- Footwear: Wearing shoes with inadequate arch support or cushioning can contribute to the development of plantar fasciitis. Ill-fitting shoes, such as those with worn-out soles or improper arch support, can increase stress on the plantar fascia, leading to irritation and inflammation.
- Excessive physical activity: Engaging in activities that place repetitive stress on the feet, such as running, dancing, or standing for long periods, can increase the risk of developing plantar fasciitis.
Common Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis typically presents with the following symptoms:
- Heel pain: The most common symptom of plantar fasciitis is a sharp or stabbing pain in the heel. The pain is usually felt in the morning or after prolonged periods of rest, such as sitting or sleeping. It may subside to some extent with movement but can worsen after prolonged activity.
- Pain with the first steps: Many individuals with plantar fasciitis experience significant pain with their first steps in the morning or after periods of inactivity. This is known as “post-static dyskinesia” and is a characteristic symptom of the condition.
- Pain worsens with activity: Activities that strain the plantar fascia, such as walking, running, or climbing stairs, can intensify the heel pain associated with plantar fasciitis.
- Tenderness and swelling: The affected area may feel tender to touch, and some individuals may experience localized swelling in the heel.
Effective Treatment Options for Plantar Fasciitis
At Foot & Ankle Associates of Greater Pittsburgh, our podiatrists employ a comprehensive approach to treat plantar fasciitis. The specific treatment plan will depend on the severity of your condition and individual factors. The following are some commonly utilized treatment options:
Conservative Treatments
- Rest and activity modification: Reducing or modifying activities that exacerbate symptoms can help alleviate pain and promote healing.
- Physical therapy: Stretching exercises and physical therapy modalities can help strengthen the muscles and tendons surrounding the plantar fascia, reducing stress on the inflamed tissue.
- Orthotic devices: Custom orthotic inserts provide proper arch support and alignment, redistributing pressure on the foot and reducing strain on the plantar fascia.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Over-the-counter pain relievers can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with plantar fasciitis.
Advanced Treatment
Corticosteroid injections are a common treatment option for individuals suffering from plantar fasciitis. These injections aim to reduce inflammation and provide relief from the intense pain associated with the condition.
The procedure involves the careful administration of corticosteroids—a type of powerful anti-inflammatory medication—directly into the affected area of the foot. The injection is performed by our podiatrists and is an outpatient procedure.
Corticosteroid injections work by suppressing the immune response and reducing inflammation at the site of the plantar fascia injury. This helps to alleviate pain and allows the damaged tissues to heal more effectively. The effects of the injection may vary from person to person, but many individuals experience significant relief from their symptoms within a few days to a week after the injection.
While corticosteroid injections can provide short-term relief, they are not considered a permanent solution for plantar fasciitis. In some cases, a single injection may be sufficient to resolve the inflammation and pain. However, for chronic or severe cases, multiple injections may be necessary.
Surgical Intervention
Surgery is typically considered a last resort when conservative treatments have failed to alleviate symptoms. Surgical procedures for plantar fasciitis aim to release tension on the plantar fascia or remove any irritated tissue.
Why Choose Foot & Ankle Associates of Greater Pittsburgh?
At Foot & Ankle Associates of Greater Pittsburgh, we prioritize patient care and provide personalized treatment plans for each individual. Our expert podiatrists are highly skilled in diagnosing and treating plantar fasciitis, utilizing the latest advancements in podiatric care. We strive to address the root cause of your condition and alleviate your pain, enabling you to regain mobility and improve your quality of life.
Our compassionate team will conduct a thorough evaluation, including a detailed medical history review, physical examination, and imaging studies if necessary. Based on our findings, we will develop a tailored treatment plan that aligns with your specific needs and goals.
Contact Us for Plantar Faciitis Treatment
If you’re experiencing heel pain or suspect plantar fasciitis, don’t let it limit your activities or negatively impact your daily life. At Foot & Ankle Associates of Greater Pittsburgh, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive care and effective treatment options for plantar fasciitis. Our experienced podiatrists will guide you through the diagnosis and treatment process, offering support and expertise at every step.
Take the first step toward finding relief from plantar fasciitis. Schedule an appointment with Foot & Ankle Associates of Greater Pittsburgh today, and let us help you regain comfort and mobility in your feet.
Contact Us
Office
336 College Avenue, Suite 106, Beaver,
PA , 15009
Monday: 8am – 12pm
Tuesday: 8am – 4:30pm
Wednesday: 8am – 4:30pm
Thursday: 8am – 4:30pm
Friday: 8am – 12pm
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed