Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is one of the leading causes of heel pain in adults. At Bluestone Podiatry, board-certified podiatrist and foot and ankle surgeon Kurt Relation, DPM, can help resolve your discomfort. He offers a variety of treatments, including custom orthotics, physical therapy, and steroid injections, for plantar fasciitis relief.

Call Bluestone Podiatry today to schedule an appointment, or book your visit online.

What is plantar fasciitis?

The long band of connective tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot is called the plantar fascia. While your plantar fascia acts as a shock absorber and is durable enough to bear your entire body weight, it can easily become inflamed with overuse or injury, resulting in a condition known as plantar fasciitis.

What are the symptoms of plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis can cause symptoms such as:

• Stabbing or throbbing across the bottom of your feet
• Discomfort after taking your first steps after sleep
• Pain after standing or walking for long periods
• Pain that increases over time
  

Most people with plantar fasciitis have foot pain that worsens shortly after exercise rather than during physical activity.

What are the risks of developing plantar fasciitis?

Even though athletes, especially runners and dancers, are notorious for developing issues with plantar fasciitis, other factors increase your risk of developing plantar fasciitis, including:

• Overuse
• Being overweight or obese
• Between ages 40-60
• Being pregnant
• Having a job that requires being on your feet
• Wearing shoes that don’t fit well or don’t have adequate support
  

In addition, if you have flat feet or high arches, you’re more likely to struggle with plantar fasciitis issues. People who work jobs that require standing, like teachers and nurses, are also at risk.

How does a board-certified podiatrist treat plantar fasciitis? 

Treating plantar fasciitis involves a combination of therapies to decrease inflammation and support your foot. Your customized plantar fasciitis treatment plan from Dr. Relation may include:

• Rest and ice
• Immobilization
• Custom orthotics
• Night splints
• Physical therapy
• Athletic taping
• Cortisone injections
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Shockwave therapy
  

Most plantar fasciitis sufferers start noticing some relief within a few days of starting their treatment plan.

At Bluestone Podiatry, Dr. Relation offers plenty of innovative solutions for plantar fasciitis. However, he may recommend surgery as a last resort if your condition is severe. 

Plantar fasciitis surgery can be as simple as releasing your plantar fascia through an endoscopic approach.

Call us today to schedule your plantar fasciitis consultation, or book your visit online.