Everything You Should Know About Plantar Fasciitis

If you suffer from foot or heel pain, you’re not alone. According to the APMA (American Podiatric Medical Association) in a study done in 2014, nearly 80% of adults over the age of 18 across the country reported that they had suffered from foot pain at some point. Of these, only a third said they would go and see a podiatrist about the pain.

The problem is that foot and heel pain can severely restrict a person’s quality of life because it restricts their physical activity. If you currently suffer from aches and pains in your foot, don’t hesitate to make an appointment at the Kazmer Foot & Ankle Center. My name is Dr Gary Kazmer, and I can help you with your foot pain.

Plantar Fasciitis - a common source of foot pain

The plantar fascia is a strong band of ligament that is connected at the ball of the heel and runs on the underside of the foot. It’s important because it provides much-needed support for the foot and all the muscles, bones, and connective tissues.

Unfortunately, the plantar fascia ligament can also become damaged. Overuse and overstretching can result in tiny tears in the ligament, resulting in damage and inflammation. This causes a range of painful and irritating symptoms that can be anything from mild to severe.

One interesting fact about plantar fasciitis is that it is incredibly common. Around 10% of the population will suffer from this condition at some point, making it one of the most common foot ailments and one of the most common conditions treated by podiatrists.

What causes Plantar Fasciitis?

Given the amount of work the average foot does, it’s really no surprise that they can become tired and achy. After all, our feet support our weight, allow us to walk, run, move, and better balance ourselves. Though anyone can develop plantar fasciitis, the following factors certainly increase the likelihood of developing it:

• Poorly fitted shoes that don’t provide enough support for the arches and muscles
• Wearing high heeled shoes often
• Existing conditions in the foot, such as flat feet or muscle weakness
• Working in a job that requires a lot of standing
• Engaging in lots of physical activity, especially running
• Being aged over 40
• Being overweight or pregnant

It’s also interesting to note that some people call it “runner's heel” because it is so prevalent among athletes.

What does it feel like?

People who have plantar fasciitis most commonly report heel pain and pain on the underside of the foot at the arch. It usually feels like an ache, pain, or burning sensation. It is often worse after a night of rest and will flare up when weight is first placed on the foot in the morning.

The pain will generally settle down after this if it is in an earlier stage of development, and then flare up again later in the day.

If plantar fasciitis is left untreated, it can progress to feeling pain and aches all the time, even when at rest. This is when it can seriously interfere with one’s life and cause significant distress.

Treating Plantar Fasciitis

While some cases of this condition will heal on their own with sufficient rest, many other cases will need some treatment. This is certainly the case if the condition has progressed to the point where it is causing pain all the time.

If you are suffering from the symptoms of plantar fasciitis, the first thing that I’ll do is to sit down and talk about it with you. During our consultation, I will make a thorough physical evaluation of the affected foot, just to make sure it’s not another kind of condition.

Where possible, I will always try to administer conservative treatments, including lifestyle changes, anti-inflammatory medication, rest, and foot stretching exercises. Only if these initial treatments do not work sufficiently will I recommend foot surgery.

Don’t wait for the pain to affect your life

Our feet do a lot of work for us. When they’re aching and sore, it can have a negative impact on the way that we live. If you’re suffering from foot pain and think you might have plantar fasciitis, make an appointment to see me at my clinic through our easy to use online booking service.