The plantar fascia is a thick fibrous structure that runs from your heel to your toes. It functions to support the arch of your foot. Inflammation of this structure is known as plantar fasciitis. Aldo Gonzalez, D.P.M. and Xavier Sanchez, D.P.M. specialize in the treatment of plantar fasciitis at Ankle and Foot Center of Florida, in Palm Beach Gardens. If heel pain is keeping you sidelined, make an appointment today by calling or clicking the online booking tool.
Plantar Fasciitis Q & A
What is plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is the No. 1 cause of heel pain worldwide. It develops at the attachment of the plantar fascia on the heel. Symptoms are largely focused in this area, but they can be experienced along the arch.
Most people with plantar fasciitis experience sharp, stabbing heel pain. Plantar fasciitis pain is typically worse when you first get out of bed. In most cases, it improves with movement, but may reoccur after periods of rest.
Who is at risk of plantar fasciitis?
Anyone can develop plantar fasciitis, but there are certain factors that increase your risk. These include:
■ Being overweight
■ Standing for long periods & repetitive tasks
■ Having flat feet
■ Poor flexibility
■ Having high arches
■ Unsupportive shoe gear
■ High intensity activity
Is there a way to prevent plantar fasciitis?
The best way to prevent or decrease the risk of plantar fasciitis is to address or support any underlying issues that can result in plantar fasciitis.. Dr. Gonzalez and Dr. Sanchez recommend maintaining a healthy weight, stretching, orthotics, and wearing supportive shoes.
How do you diagnose plantar fasciitis?
To diagnose plantar fasciitis, your provider performs a physical exam, reviews your medical history, and reviews your symptoms. X Ray evaluation is beneficial in evaluating foot structure & to rule out other conditions.
There are other conditions which cause heel pain similarly to plantar fasciitis. Evaluation with experienced foot & ankle specialists, Dr Gonzalez & Dr Sanchez, to identify the root cause of your symptoms is a step in the right direction to reaching a solution.
How do you treat plantar fasciitis?
Treatment for plantar fasciitis depends on the duration and severity of your symptoms. Whenever possible, Dr. Gonzalez and Dr. Sanchez recommend conservative measures of care like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), stretching, steroid injection, activity modification, shoe modification, and orthotic management.
If these treatments don’t provide adequate relief, Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy or PRP Injection Therapy, which triggers your body’s natural healing process by tissue regeneration & remodeling. For severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary.
Don’t let plantar fasciitis pain interfere with your ability to work and play. Request an appointment at Ankle and Foot Center of Florida today by calling or using the online booking tool.