The Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis

If you are experiencing persistent heel pain, you could have a foot condition known as plantar fasciitis. The condition develops when the plantar fascia tissues that stretch along the bottom of the foot from the heels to the base of the toes become inflamed. The inflammation can cause heel pain and discomfort that often becomes more intense throughout the day. Dr. Dennis Fassman, the experienced podiatrist at our office in Westbury, NY, can diagnose and treat heel pain due to plantar fasciitis.

Causes of Plantar Fasciitis 

The plantar fascia tissue runs along the length of the foot and provides shock absorption to the heel and foot. Constant pressure, excessive wear and tear, and repeated stretching of the plantar fascia tissue can lead to inflammation, swelling, pain, and discomfort. This condition is referred to as plantar fasciitis and can be caused by several factors.

One common cause of the condition is overpronation, which occurs when the feet roll inward when stepping. Rolling inward stretches the plantar fascia tissue and puts pressure on it. Repeated tension and pressure can lead to inflammation and pain over time. Other causes of plantar fasciitis include:

• Running
• Spending long hours on the feet
• Wearing shoes without adequate support
• Participating in sports or activities that put stress on the heels
• High-impact workouts
• Being overweight
• Irregular gait
  

Symptoms 

One of the most common symptoms of plantar fasciitis is heel pain. Sometimes pain can also be felt along the arches of the feet. Another characteristic of the condition is that pain tends to be more intense first thing in the morning or after extended periods of sitting or standing. Additionally, plantar fasciitis can become worse over time. Left untreated, mild discomfort can turn into severe pain within a few months. The skilled podiatrist at our office in Westbury, NY, can determine if your symptoms are due to plantar fasciitis.

Treatments

It is best to seek treatment for plantar fasciitis as soon as possible so the condition does not become more serious. Several methods can be used to treat the condition. One step you can take right away on your own is to gently stretch or flex the feet throughout the day, especially if you sit or stand for extended periods as part of your job. Gentle stretching movements help relax plantar fascia tissues that have tightened up. Other ways to treat plantar fasciitis include:

• Icing the feet
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Limiting physical activities while healing
• Custom orthotic shoe inserts
• Removable walking cast
• Padding and strapping
• Physical therapy
• Night splints
  
  

The symptoms of plantar fasciitis include heel pain, as well as pain that is more intense upon waking or after sitting or standing for extended periods. If you have developed plantar fasciitis, Dr. Fassman can recommend a treatment plan to help you heal. To schedule an appointment with our knowledgeable podiatrist, call our office in Westbury, NY, at (516) 333-5566.