Your Podiatrist Can Treat the Pain of Plantar Fasciitis
The discomfort of plantar fasciitis can be problematic, causing difficulty wearing shoes, standing, walking, running, and even going about everyday activities. The more you know about plantar fasciitis, the easier it will be for you to spot its symptom and see a podiatrist like Dr. Jason Grossman and Dr. Paul A. Osemene for prompt care.
What is plantar fasciitis?
A thick band of soft tissue spans the length of your foot from the toes to the heel, called the plantar fascia. When that tissue becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis occurs.
What are the signs of plantar fasciitis?
The hallmark symptom of plantar fasciitis is heel pain, particularly in the morning when you first put your feet on the floor. Other symptoms include swelling and discomfort that interferes with moving and going about your work and recreational activities.
Of course, these symptoms are signs of other foot and ankle conditions. Your foot doctor is a medical specialist and is the best-qualified professional to diagnose the source of your discomfort.
Am I at risk of plantar fasciitis?
Anyone can get plantar fasciitis. Many factors can increase your risk. These include:
Gender – Women are more likely to develop plantar fasciitis than men.
Age – Plantar fasciitis is most common between the ages of 40 and 70.
Excess weight or obesity
High arches or flat feet
Atypically tight Achilles tendons
Exercise that stresses the feet, such as running or ballet
Atypical posture or gait including pronation, an inward turning of the ankles
Is treatment available for plantar fasciitis?
Yes! Your podiatrist is an expert at helping people suffering from plantar fasciitis. While foot and ankle surgery may eventually be the most appropriate course of treatment, non-invasive alternatives are usually the first options. These include:
over-the-counter and prescription medications
at-home RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation) treatment to relieve pain and swelling
exercises and stretches that you can perform in bed before you can get up in the morning
custom orthotics to provide additional support when wearing shoes
specialty footwear
physical therapy
Are you worried about plantar fasciitis, or do you have another concern about the health and wellness of your feet, ankles, or lower legs? Call the friendly Advanced Feet and Ankle Care staff at (732) 679-4330 or click here to schedule a convenient appointment with Middlesex County podiatrists Jason Grossman, DPM, and Paul A. Osemene, DPM, in our modern, comfortable offices in Old Bridge and Sayreville today.