Plantar Fasciitis: Symptoms and Treatment Options

Heel pain got you benched? It could be plantar fasciitis.

Heel pain is one of the most common foot problems, and while this symptom may go away with rest and care sometimes pain may persist if you aren’t providing it with the treatment it needs. This is where our Avon, CT, podiatrist Dr. Richard Grayson can step in to take over your treatment plan. Learn more about plantar fasciitis, the most common cause of heel pain and when to see a doctor.

What is plantar fasciitis?

The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue that runs along the soles of the feet from the toes to the heel. This tissue is responsible for providing the arches and muscles of your feet with support; however, when the tissue is stressed or overstretched this can cause microtears and inflammation.

What are the symptoms of plantar fasciitis?

Since plantar fasciitis is the result of overuse, symptoms will appear gradually rather than suddenly. The classic symptom of plantar fasciitis is heel pain that originates under the heel below the bone. The pain may also radiate to the arches. Stiffness and pain may be particularly severe in the morning when first getting up or after bouts of inactivity. You may find that with exercise your symptoms dissipate only to return immediately after.

How is plantar fasciitis treated?

Most individuals who know that they have plantar fasciitis can treat the problem on their own with rest and home care. This includes icing, elevating and taking pain relievers; however, sometimes more aggressive care and treatment are needed if symptoms persist or become chronic. Treatment options include custom orthotics, physical therapy and EPAT Treatments.

When should I see a doctor?

Our Avon, CT, foot doctor has handled a lot of acute and chronic plantar fasciitis cases and can help you if you find that at-home care just isn’t enough to get your symptoms under control. You should see a podiatrist immediately if you are experiencing severe pain and swelling, if there is numbness or tingling in the heel, or if severe heel pain is the result of an injury.

You should also schedule an appointment with us if heel pain lasts weeks despite home care and rest, or if heel pain occurs even when you aren’t putting weight on the foot.

If heel pain is keeping you from enjoying your morning run or playing with your kids, then call Avon Podiatry Associates today at (860) 677-7733. We provide comprehensive foot and ankle care to patients living in and around Avon, CT.