Chronic heel pain can interfere with your daily activities and quality of life. At Total Family Foot Care in Arlington and Fort Worth, Texas, Terry Wright, DPM, and Jacquelyn Perry, DPM, perform comprehensive diagnostic techniques to determine whether plantar fasciitis is the cause of your heel pain. To learn more about plantar fasciitis, call Total Family Foot Care or schedule an appointment online today.

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What is plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is an inflammatory condition that commonly causes heel pain. The plantar fascia is a long, fibrous type of tissue that connects the heel to the bottom of the toes. Its function is to support the arches of your feet. When this thick band of tissue becomes inflamed, it can cause debilitating heel pain.

What are the symptoms of plantar fasciitis?

While plantar fasciitis affects everyone differently, the most common symptoms include:

  • Heel pain
  • Pain that worsens in the morning
  • Pain after long periods of sitting
  • Pain after exercise

Many individuals notice that their heel pain subsides completely during physical activity, then increases during rest. Over time, your heel may start to feel sore and tender to the touch.

What causes plantar fasciitis?

The most common cause of plantar fasciitis is repeated stress on the fibrous band of tissue. As the plantar fascia continues to take in pressure from weight and movement, it can become inflamed and irritated.

Common risk factors for plantar fasciitis include:

  • High arches
  • Increased activity without proper conditioning
  • Overuse
  • Weight challenges

Heel spurs, or bony growths on the heel bone, often develop in individuals with plantar fasciitis. While heel spurs don’t necessarily cause plantar fasciitis, they can aggravate the condition.

How is plantar fasciitis diagnosed?

To diagnose plantar fasciitis, either Dr. Wright or Dr. Perry examines your affected foot. High arches are a key indicator that plantar fasciitis is the culprit behind your pain. Your doctor also performs a series of tests that involves flexing and pointing your toes to pinpoint the location of your pain. They may order imaging tests, such as X-rays to rule out other conditions.

What are the treatments for plantar fasciitis?

Generally, plantar fasciitis responds well to nonsurgical treatments, such as:

  • Rest
  • Ice and heat therapy
  • Physical therapy
  • Regular exercise
  • Weight management
  • Shoe modifications
  • Custom-made orthotics
  • Night splint
  • Corticosteroid injections

EPAT (shockwave therapy) may also help reduce inflammation around the plantar fascia to relieve pain, accelerate healing, and improve foot function.

To learn more about plantar fasciitis, call Total Family Foot Care or schedule an appointment online today.