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Podiatrist Toronto, ON Sheldon H. Nadal D.P.M.
586 Eglinton Avenue E. Suite 501 Toronto, Ontario M4P1P2
Local: 416-486-9917 Toll free: (877) 456-3338

Understanding Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most prevalent foot problems affecting adults. As reported by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, in the United States, roughly two million people seek treatment for plantar fasciitis each year.

Plantar fasciitis involves irritation of the ligament that lies under the skin on the bottom of the foot called the plantar fascia. The ligament connects the heel and the front of the foot. It also supports your arch.

Although the fascia can withstand a lot of stress, sometimes the force placed on the feet can lead to injury and irritation, which leads to plantar fasciitis. Anyone can develop plantar fasciitis. But according to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Healthit is most common in adults between 45 and 64. 

Symptoms 

Symptoms of plantar fasciitis may vary. Some people only have mild symptoms. But for others, it can interfere with their activity level.

Typical symptoms include the following:

  • Pain in the heel
  • The pain usually is worse in the morning or after sitting for extended amounts of time
  • Increased pain after exercise, not during

Risks 

In addition to occurring more often in adults between 45 and 64, there are other risk factors for developing plantar fasciitis, including:

  • Spending a lot of time standing
  • Having tight calf muscles
  • Being overweight
  • Having a very high arch
  • Being a runner
  • Repeated participation in a high impact activity, such as basketball

Diagnosis 

To make a diagnosis, your foot specialist will review your medical history and symptoms, as well as perform an exam. Sometimes that is enough to make a diagnosis. In other instances, imaging tests, such as an x-ray, may be ordered to confirm a diagnosis or rule out other conditions.

Treatment 

Plantar fasciitis may be frustrating, since the pain may last for several weeks or months. But most cases of plantar fasciitis are treatable without surgery or invasive procedures.

Your foot specialist may start with conservative treatment, including

Rest: Stopping activities that contribute to pain may help ease symptoms. You might have to switch from high-impact activities, such as running, to something easier on your heel until the pain decreases.

Over the counter non steroidal anti-inflammatory medications:  Over the counter pain medications may help decrease discomfort and inflammation.

Ice: Applying ice to the heel a few times a day may reduce inflammation. Put a plastic water bottle in the freezer for about 30 minutes. Roll your foot over the bottle for about 15 minutes three or four times a day.

Stretches:  If the muscles in your calves are tight, it can add to plantar fasciitis pain. There are several stretches that may help. Performing stretches for plantar fasciitis may also prevent the pain from reoccurring.

Consider the following calf stretch:

  • Place your hands against a wall
  • Extend the leg back, while keeping the knee straight
  • Bend the other knee in front
  • The feet should be flat on the ground.
  • You should feel a stretch in the calf and heel of the extended leg
  • Hold the stretch for 20 seconds
  • Repeat two times and switch legs

Orthotics/Shoe inserts: Shoe inserts can decrease force and stress on the heel that occurs with every step you take. Although pre-made inserts may be useful, custom made orthotics may be your best option, especially if you spend a lot of time on your feet. 

Injections: Steroid injections will decrease inflammation and may ease the pain. But steroid injections can have adverse side effects, so they may be limited by your doctor. 

Night splints: Night splints stretch the calf muscles and the arch while you are asleep. This position holds the plantar fascia in a lengthened position throughout the night. 

Extracorporeal shock wave therapy: If the above treatments are not effective, extracorporeal shock wave therapy may be an option. The procedure involves directing soundwaves in the area of heel pain to promote healing. 

If you have symptoms of plantar fasciitis, it is best to see a podiatrist for evaluation and treatment. If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, please contact Podiatrist, Sheldon Nadal, D.P.M at Bayview Medical Centre.

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