Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the long band of connective tissue running from the heel to the ball of the foot. Plantar fasciitis affects women more than men. This can cause the bottom of the heel and arch to become painful.
Statistics:
- Plantar fasciitis is the most common causes of plantar heel pain
- 73% of patients with heel pain are diagnosed with either plantar fasciitis or heel spur syndrome
- 15% of patients who see a podiatrist complain of heel pain
- 90% of those who suffer from plantar fasciitis respond to nonsurgical care
- 83.5% of patients with plantar fasciitis experience pain with their first steps in the morning
- Plantar fasciitis can occur with or without a heel spur present.
Causes of Plantar Fasciitis:
- Stretching the long band of tissue that connects the heel and the ball of the foot
- Muscle imbalance
- Bone deformity
- Obesity
- Trauma
- Tightness of the muscles on the back of the leg.
What can you do?
- Warm-up and stretch properly before exercise
- Wear appropriate shoe gear
- RICE — rest, ice, compression, and elevation.
What will a Podiatric Physician do for you?
- Perform a physical examination
- Perform x-ray evaluation
- Recommend taping
- Prescribe orthotic devices
- Prescribe appropriate medications
- Administer injections
- Perform surgery if necessary.
When should you see a podiatrist?
A podiatric physician and surgeon is trained specifically in the diagnosis and treatment of the foot and lower leg — including the neurological, circulatory, skin and musculoskeletal systems (bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles and nerves). If pain lasts more than a few days, keeps you from walking normally, or you have diabetes, get it checked.
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