If your heel hurts when you first get out of bed in the morning or after sitting for an extended period, you may have plantar fasciitis, one of the most common causes of heel pain. Norshae Robinson, DPM, DABPM, FACPM, and the team at Meridian Podiatry in Jacksonville, Florida, offer many cutting-edge treatment options for plantar fasciitis. To get relief from your heel pain, schedule a consultation by phone or book online today.
book onlineWhat is plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is an inflammatory condition that affects the plantar fascia, the band of tight tissue that runs from the back of your heel to your toes on the bottom of your foot. Your plantar fascia acts as a shock absorber and supports foot movement when walking or running.
Plantar fasciitis develops when you place excess stress on the band of tissue, creating tiny tears. Over time, these tears worsen, leading to irritation, inflammation, and pain.
Plantar fasciitis is common in runners. However, you may also be at risk of developing the foot pain condition if you spend long hours on your feet or are overweight or obese.
What are the symptoms of plantar fasciitis?
Heel pain is the most common symptom of plantar fasciitis. The pain may be mild or severe and often occurs after spending long periods off your feet.
For runners, or anyone who regularly exercises, you may not feel any pain during your workout, but you have discomfort afterward.
When left untreated, your plantar fasciitis pain may worsen, preventing you from participating in daily activities.
How is plantar fasciitis diagnosed?
Dr. Robinson and the team at Meridian Podiatry diagnose plantar fasciitis after reviewing your health history and completing a physical. They ask detailed questions about your symptoms and usual activities and examine your feet.
Dr. Robinson may order imaging tests to rule out other causes that might explain your heel pain, such as stress fractures.
How is plantar fasciitis treated?
The Meridian Podiatry team takes an integrative approach to foot health and care. They offer cutting-edge treatment options for plantar fasciitis to ease symptoms and promote the healing of your irritated and inflamed tissue.
Treatment for plantar fasciitis may include:
- Custom orthotics
- Night splints
- Activity modification
- Physical therapy
- Shockwave therapy
- Laser pain therapy
- Steroid injections
- PRP injections
Though healing from plantar fasciitis takes time, most people recover from the heel pain condition with conservative care. If you need surgery for plantar fasciitis, Dr. Robinson offers minimally invasive surgery options to reduce post-surgery pain and recovery time.
For expert care of your heel pain and plantar fasciitis, call Meridian Podiatry or schedule a consultation online today.