ValleyOrtho’s physician treat a wide range of common athletic injuries,
including plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of tissue in the sole of the foot.
About
Plantar fasciitis is a painful foot condition caused by inflammation of
the plantar fascia. The plantar fascia is the tough connective tissue
that stretches from the heel to the ball of the foot that helps support
the arch of the foot.
Causes
Plantar fasciitis may be caused by:
Sudden increases in running, jumping or aerobic activities
Tight lower leg muscles, especially the calf muscles
Poor foot biomechanics, including excessive pronation, flat feet, or high arches
Improper shoes for specific activities, shoes with poor fit or cushion,
and/or shoes with a broken down heel
Prolonged static standing on hard surfaces such as concrete or tile
Symptoms
Plantar fasciitis has a common set of symptoms, including:
Tenderness on the bottom of the foot, near the inner aspect of the heel
Pain on the bottom of the foot when first getting out of bed or after prolonged sitting
Gradual development of heel pain that starts out moderate but can become
quite severe
Diagnosis
It is important to see the right orthopedic specialist for heel pain. Heel
pain can also be caused by other factors, including fracture or other
trauma, stress fracture, tendinitis, arthritis, nerve entrapment, or cyst
in the heel bone. The specialists at ValleyOrtho will be able to obtain
the proper history, perform an exam, and order the appropriate imaging
needed to determine the cause of the heel pain.
Treatment
Heel pain can usually be treated conservatively, without surgery.
Plantar fasciitis may be treated by:
Icing the area of tenderness after activity
Decreasing the frequency, intensity and duration of running and other activities
Stretching and massaging calf muscles and toe flexors (muscles that curl the toes)
Strengthening the ankle muscles and toe flexors
Trying orthotics, arch supports and/or new shoes
Consulting with a physical therapist to improve biomechanics, improve flexibility
and strength, and consider modalities
Taking anti-inflammatory medication as prescribed by a physician
Utilizing a night splint while sleeping
Receiving Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) injections if conservative treatment
is unsuccessful and plantar fasciitis becomes chronic
Occasionally, if none of the above solutions are effective, casting or
surgery may be considered. In general, any surgery should be avoided until
conservative treatments have been attempted. At ValleyOrtho, we are committed
to delivering the best in superior, patient-centered care.
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