Who gets plantar fasciitis?

For obvious reasons, runners and athletes are subject to the condition, but people who are carrying too much weight can also suffer. It also afflicts older adults. And if you have a job that keeps you on your feet all day, plantar fasciitis can occur. Anything that puts too much continuous pressure on the ligament can cause it.

How can you prevent a flare-up?

Mix up your routine. If your exercise routine involves lots of running and jumping, try adding some low-impact exercises to give your plantar fascia a break.

Give it a rest. If you’re starting to feel that old familiar heel pain, don’t try to push through the pain. Your feet will thank you.

Give it a stretch. That tendon get can too tight, so you need to limber it up. You’ve seen runners do this before a big race. First, sit down with your legs extended straight out in front of you. Grab your toes and pull them toward you to give the tendon a stretch, but not too hard. Next, stand facing a wall and position your foot flat on the ground behind you. Hold for about 30 seconds per foot.

Wear the correct shoes. Don’t wear shoes that are too tight — or too loose. The shoes that fit right will support your heel and prevent flare-ups. We can also recommend some inserts to provide additional support.

Try over-the-counter anti-inflammatories. It will reduce swelling and the accompanying pain.

In summary…

The best way to treat plantar fasciitis is to not get it at all. If you’re still feeling those symptoms after trying these treatments, don’t wait. Contact the Orthopedic Performance Institute in San Antonio to have your condition examined by an expert!

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SYMPTOMS

When you put too much pressure on the plantar fascia, you can damage or tear it, resulting in pain at the heel or even all over the bottom of the foot. Various people have described the pain as dull or sharp — even a burning ache.

Plantar fasciitis can also result in loss of flexibility, especially first thing in the morning or after long periods of inactivity. This can make it difficult to walk. Sometimes the pain isn’t felt during a particular activity, but it arises just after stopping.

CAUSES

Being overweight puts more pressure on your plantar fascia ligaments. In fact, women who are in the last stage of pregnancy may experience temporary plantar fasciitis due to the recent weight gain. Rigorous physical activity, such as long-distance running, can be a culprit as well. Jobs that require you to be on your feet a great deal of the time can also inflame the ligaments. Flat feet and high arches can cause plantar fasciitis. Even wearing the wrong shoes can cause the disorder.

Plantar fasciitis can increase over time. Ignoring the symptoms or fighting through the pain can alter the way you walk, spreading the discomfort to your hips, knees and back.

DIAGNOSIS

Your doctor will examine your feet to identify the exact location of the pain and make sure it’s not a different problem. The doctor may also perform some foot-flexing. They’ll also check your reflexes, muscle tone, senses and coordination to rule out any other problems. An x-ray or scan may also be ordered to assure that the pain isn’t being caused by a bone fracture.

TREATMENT

At home, stay off your feet and apply ice for 15 to 20 minutes three or four times a day. Curtailing strenuous activity is also a must, as well as stretching exercises and arch supports in your shoes. Anti-inflammatories such as ibuprofen (Motrin or Advil) or naproxen (Aleve) may also offer some relief.

Reducing the inflammation is important, but medical treatment may also be required. Your doctor may either inject a corticosteroid into the damaged area or apply a topical ointment, depending on the severity. Physical therapy may also be prescribed. Braces or supports may also be prescribed. Surgery is usually a last resort.

RESULTS

Most people don’t need surgery to relieve pain from plantar fasciitis. Dr. Alexandra Matthews, fellowship-trained Sports Medicine Specialist with the Orthopedic Performance Institute, says “There are different treatments for plantar fasciitis such as therapy options, supportive footwear and inserts, or medicines to help you feel better so don’t suffer in silence. We can help improve this condition.”

At Orthopedic Performance Institute, our physicians are experts in diagnosing and treating all types of orthopedic conditions. Our mission is to alleviate your pain and get you back on your feet as quickly as possible. Don’t ignore your foot pain — make an appointment with us today.

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