Plantar Fasciitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments
Did you know that plantar fasciitis is the most common form of heel pain? About 10 percent of the population has plantar fasciitis, which means many of us struggle with that sharp, stabbing pain in our heels when we take our first steps in the morning (among other ailments).
Due to its prevalence in society, we at Cypress Foot & Ankle Center want to educate our patients on the causes, symptoms, and treatments for this burdensome condition. Continue reading to familiarize yourself with plantar fasciitis.
Common Causes
There are a few things that can lead to plantar fasciitis:
- Overuse from activities like running, jumping, or prolonged standing can place repetitive stress on the plantar fascia and cause inflammation.
- Along with high levels of activity, wearing improper footwear, such as shoes with poor arch support, high heels, or flat shoes with thin soles, can place extraordinary strain on your heels.
- Beyond lifestyle choices, biomechanical issues from deformities, including flat feet, high arches, or abnormal gait, can alter weight distribution and increase stress on this tissue.
- Similarly, obesity can place extra stress on the feet regardless of how that pressure is delegated.
Symptoms
- The classic heel pain often presents in distinct patterns. Most people have intense pain in the morning because the tissue tightens while they’re sleeping.
- According to the NIH, about 50% of people with plantar fasciitis also develop heel spurs due to the repetitive stress from exercise, prolonged standing, and other causal factors.
- Besides stiffness and pressure, overstretching your feet, whether from climbing stairs or athletic activity, can also exacerbate the pain.
Treatment Options
At Cypress Foot & Ankle Center, we specialize in treating plantar fasciitis with advanced care strategies. Through x-rays, ultrasounds, physical assessments, and other diagnostic exams, we arrive at the best minimally invasive treatment options for you. These may include:
- Orthotics: Custom or over-the-counter orthotics can provide additional support and cushioning for your feet.
- Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers or prescription medications may be used to manage pain and inflammation.
- Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can teach you exercises and stretches to strengthen your feet and improve flexibility.
- Night Splints: Wearing a night splint can help keep the plantar fascia stretched overnight and reduce that dreadful AM pain.
Surgery is rarely needed for plantar fasciitis, but it may be considered in severe cases that don’t respond to conservative treatment.
Of course, consult with us or a trusted podiatrist before pursuing independent treatments.
Whether you’re experiencing pain, concerned about a deformity, or simply seeking preventative care, Cypress Foot & Ankle Center offers a wide range of services to address all your foot and ankle needs. While we focus on nonsurgical treatments, our team also provides advanced surgical procedures when necessary, using the latest technologies to ensure superior outcomes. If you’re in need, call (281) 377-4040 or contact us online!
