Plantar Fasciitis Treatment
Top Rated Local® Foot Treatments
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
The plantar fascia is the tissue located on the bottom of your foot that runs from the bottom of your toes all the way to the back of the heel bone. When this tissue becomes inflamed, it is known as plantar fasciitis. This can cause major discomfort and worsen if not treated properly.
At A Step Ahead Foot & Ankle Center, our team has extensive knowledge and experience with plantar fasciitis. Over the years, we have found several different treatment options that can get you back on your feet comfortably in no time. Contact one of our offices today to schedule a consultation!
Symptoms Of Plantar Fasciitis
While the overall symptom of plantar fasciitis is pain in the foot, most commonly near the heel, many people wonder if they are indeed suffering from plantar fasciitis or some other foot problem. Another common symptom of plantar fasciitis is a tingling or burning feeling in the foot. Fortunately, there are a few at-home tests you can perform to deduct whether the symptoms you are experiencing are truly plantar fasciitis. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms or are suffering from moderate to severe pain anywhere in your feet, contact A Step Ahead Foot & Ankle Center today to start your journey to relief!
Tender Heel Test - Firmly press on the bottom of your heel. In many plantar fasciitis cases, this will cause the pain to increase. This is a good test to help identify if the pain is actually originating from near the heel.
Foot/Ankle Flex Test - Flex your foot and ankle, pointing your toes upward as far as possible towards your shin. If you experience an increase in discomfort or pain during this test, it may be a sign of plantar fasciitis.
Prolonged Rest Test - This test you may have already performed without thinking about it. You may experience pain after sitting or laying down for an extended period of time as this causes the plantar fascia to contract.
Prolonged Activity Test - Similar to the prolonged rest test, being on your feet and stretching the plantar fascia for an extended period of time can also cause an increase in pain if you are suffering from plantar fasciitis.
Weight Test - Take note if you begin to limp in an attempt to avoid putting weight on the foot due to an increase in pain and discomfort. Weight can often cause plantar fasciitis to become more evident in many cases.
Are You At Risk?
While we know that plantar fasciitis is a condition of the plantar fascia becoming inflamed, it is still uncertain exactly what causes the condition. However, with extensive research, there are some common factors that leave some individuals at a higher risk of developing plantar fasciitis than others. Contact A Step Ahead Foot & Ankle Center today with any questions or concerns about the risk factors associated with plantar fasciitis!
Gender
Studies show that females are more likely to develop plantar fasciitis than males. The exact reason for this is still uncertain, but is often blamed on pregnancy and poor footwear. Take note that men are not exempt as the condition has affected much of the male population over the years too.
Age
As an individual ages, they are at higher risk for plantar fasciitis. This is due to the fact that the inflammation of the plantar fascia is caused by small tears that tend to happen with extended use over time. If you are between 40 and 60 years of age, you are at higher risk for plantar fasciitis.
Weight
Individuals that are overweight are more likely to develop plantar fasciitis. This extra weight puts strain on the plantar fascia tissue, causing it to become overstretched, thin, and susceptible to tears and damage which could lead to the irritation and inflammation known as plantar fasciitis.
Foot Mechanics
While the shape and positioning of your feet is something that you are often born with or develop at a very early age, it can become a major factor of foot problems later in life. People that are flat-footed as well as those that have extremely high arches are at higher risk for plantar fasciitis.
Walking Type
Footwear
Failing to wear footwear that supports good foot health or corrective footwear for those with additional foot problems can lead to the development of plantar fasciitis as well. This pertains to wearing high-heeled shoes too often, as well as wearing shoes with little to no arch support.
Exercise
While exercise is extremely important when it comes to staying fit and healthy, it is vital that you are being cautious about sudden changes to your exercise routine and performing exercises that could be damaging to the plantar fascia, such as overstretching or overworking the tissue.
Occupation
Your occupation can also play a major role in the risk of developing plantar fasciitis. It has been proven that individuals that are required to be on their feet the majority of the day are more susceptible to plantar fasciitis, as the constant use causes the tissue to wear out at a faster rate.
Achilles Tendon
The Achilles tendon directly affects the foot and its functionality. Individuals with tight Achilles tendons are more likely to suffer from plantar fasciitis, as this condition can lead to a tightness in the plantar fascia tissue as well — making it easier to overstretch or overwork the tissue.
Treating A
Plantar Fasciitis
Simple Ways To Relieve
Plantar Fasciitis Pain
1. Rest/Ice
Getting off your feet and applying an ice pack can help an overstretched plantar fascia tissue heal while ice will keep inflammation down.
2. Stretching
Stretching helps keep your Achilles tendon and plantar fascia from getting too tight, while also strengthening the surrounding muscles.
3. Athletic Tape
If your plantar fasciitis is caused by overstretching your plantar fascia, athletic tape can help stabilize your feet and ankles while active.
4. Night Splints
Night splints are another way to help your plantar fascia from contracting and tightening while you are off your feet, specifically at night.
Use an elastic bandage to stabilize the injured area, while reducing blood flow and swelling.
6. OTC Medications
Placing the injured area above the heart will also assist in preventing further swelling.
Advanced Treatment Options
Choosing A Step Ahead Foot & Ankle Center
A Step Ahead Foot & Ankle Center is staffed by some of the best foot and ankle doctors in the region. With offices located in Fort Collins, Loveland, and Cheyenne, our team of professionals is here for you whenever you need us!
We have the ability to create custom functional orthotics for our patients, right here in our offices to provide you with convenient and professional treatment options for your plantar fasciitis as well as numerous other foot problems. We understand the pain and discomfort that plantar fasciitis can cause and how it can interrupt your daily life. You aren’t alone and we want to help you find the right solution to fit your needs. Contact A Step Ahead Foot & Ankle Center today to schedule an appointment and receive relief from your foot and heel pain!