Tuesday, 20 December 2022 00:00

Understanding Plantar Fasciitis Pain

Sometimes aching feet are simply a result of standing for too long or overdoing an activity. But certain types of foot pain may indicate more serious arch and heel problems, the most common of which is plantar fasciitis. If you experience sharp pains in the feet when you first get up in the morning, it can be a sign of plantar fasciitis because the muscles in the feet tighten up overnight. Likewise, if you feel pain in the heels after exercising, and inflammation becomes chronic, plantar fasciitis may be indicated. Arthritis may be an underlying cause of plantar fasciitis and the heel pain it brings. Osteoporosis, which is a thinning of the bones, can contribute to stress fractures that may change the way you move or walk. This shifting of weight can cause foot pain to increase and add to the risk of developing plantar fasciitis. If you believe you may have plantar fasciitis, please make an appointment with a podiatrist for an examination and diagnosis.  

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists from Comprehensive Foot & Ankle Centers. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

  • Excessive running
  • Having high arches in your feet
  • Other foot issues such as flat feet
  • Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
  • Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

  • Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Shepherdsville and Louisville, KY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

 

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