The Symptoms & Causes of Plantar Fasciitis

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The wide band of thick, fibrous tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot often becomes irritated and inflamed causing considerable pain and discomfort in a condition called plantar fasciitis. One of the most common early signs of plantar fasciitis is pain in the heel that is often most noticeable when you get out of bed after a long rest. The sudden pressure of weight after resting can stretch the ligament causing severe pain and tenderness. These symptoms often happen intermittently at first, so you may be led to believe that the problem isn’t serious. But the repeated stress to the tissues can create tiny tears to develop in the tissue, increasing the pain and requiring immediate treatment from your foot care professional.

Some Causes of Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is frequently the result of having one or more of the following problems:

  • Poorly fitting shoes—Shoes that lack the correct arch support which can cause overstretching or the plantar plate.
  • Being overweight—Excess weight adds more pressure to the plantar fascia.
  • Tight calf muscles. Wearing high heels often or not stretching the muscles enough can cause them to become taught.
  • Overpronation—This is frequently an inherited tendency that is caused by having flat feet or fallen arches and makes you more susceptible to developing plantar fasciitis.
  • Excessive stress and pressure—Those individuals who spend a lot of time on their feet for work or sports are more likely to increase the strain on ligaments and tendons, including the plantar fascia.

Treatment Options for Plantar Fasciitis

If you are experiencing pain in your foot, it is important to see a podiatrist and determine the cause to avoid additional damage including the possibility of heel spurs, or leg and back issues. Plantar fasciitis is often treated successfully when it is caught in the beginning stages.

The initial treatment of plantar fasciitis usually includes conservative methods including the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation), calf muscles and Achilles tendon stretches, and wearing shoes with good arch support and custom fitted orthotic inserts. Physical therapy and flexibility exercises will be implemented, and you may need to wear a special splint or boot at night.

If you are experiencing heel pain contact your podiatrist for proper diagnosis and treatment. At E.J. Nemet Podiatry in Twinsburg,  E.J. Nemet, DPM, treats a variety of foot and ankle conditions, including sports injuries, pediatric foot problems, diabetic foot complications, nerve disorders, and toenail and skin conditions. With advanced technologies and a dedicated staff, Dr. Nemet provides expert and compassionate care to patients in the Twinsburg and Beachwood areas. To contact us or to schedule an appointment, please call (234) 212-9940.

Common Foot ConditionsE.J. NEMET DPM, LLC