Plantar Fasciitis

Heel pain is a hallmark indicator of a condition called plantar fasciitis. If you struggle with heel pain that limits physical activity or keeps you off your feet, see the specialists at Platte River Foot and Ankle Surgeons located throughout Nebraska. The outstanding podiatrists offer effective treatments for plantar fasciitis to ease your discomfort. Call the office nearest you to schedule a consultation, or request one using the online booking tab today.

What is plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is a condition that causes heel pain. It develops when thick tissue bands on the bottom of each foot become inflamed. The most common cause of heel pain, plantar fasciitis, can feel debilitating, preventing you from being on your feet and staying active. See the experts at Platte River Foot and Ankle Surgeons at the first sign of a problem.

What are the symptoms of plantar fasciitis?

The symptoms of plantar fasciitis include stabbing pain near the heels on the bottom of your feet. The discomfort you experience may worsen after taking the first few steps after you wake up. It can also get worse after getting up from sitting or after long periods of standing. 

Complications include back, hip, foot, or knee problems due to altering the way you walk in an attempt to avoid plantar fasciitis pain.

What are the risk factors for plantar fasciitis?

The causes and risk factors associated with plantar fasciitis include:

• Tension 
• Stress
• Inflammation
• Being aged 40-60
• Long-distance running
• Aerobic dance
• Ballet dancing
• Flat feet
• High foot arches
• Being a runner
• Occupations that keep you on your feet
• Obesity

Being a teacher, factory worker, waitress, or having another job that keeps you on your feet may increase your chances of plantar fasciitis, but the cause of the condition isn’t always clear.

How is plantar fasciitis diagnosed?

Your podiatrist diagnoses plantar fasciitis after discussing your medical history, symptoms, and lifestyle habits. They examine your feet and ankles and may recommend X-rays or an MRI to detect or rule out additional causes of pain, such as fractures.

How is plantar fasciitis treated?

To treat plantar fasciitis, your podiatrist may suggest making lifestyle changes, taking medications, or undergoing surgery. Things you can do at home include resting, icing the painful areas, modifying your exercise routine, and doing injury-specific stretches. Maintain an ideal weight, eat nutritious foods, and wear comfortable and supportive footwear. 

Additional conservative treatments include physical therapy, orthotics, night splints, a walking boot, corticosteroid injections, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections, shockwave therapy, and ultrasonic tissue repair. Surgery is a last resort when other pain-relieving methods haven’t worked or if your pain is severe.

To find relief from plantar fasciitis, schedule an evaluation at Platte River Foot and Ankle Surgeons by phone or request one online today.