Plantar fasciitis is the most common condition that I see on a daily basis. Whether I’m in my office or visiting with a neighbor, I have conversations about it almost constantly.
Plantar fasciitis is a tendinitis that occurs from overuse, insufficient arch support and occasionally from an injury.
What are the Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis?
Most people with plantar fasciitis experience pain under their heel bone or along their arch. It usually presents with
first-step pain
when getting out of bed in the morning or after a short period of rest and usually diminishes with activity. Plantar fasciitis can range from mild, temporary discomfort to severe pain that interferes with work and recreational activities.
How is Plantar Fasciitis Treated?
Although plantar fasciitis is common and can be painful, the good news is that it is usually treatable. Roughly 90% to 95% of plantar fasciitis cases ultimately resolve and usually do not recur.
Treatments for plantar fasciitis vary depending on severity of symptoms, patient age and occupation, activity level and other factors. An
evaluation of plantar fasciitis begins with a problem-focused history and physical exam. Weight bearing x-rays of the affected foot are also frequently obtained during an initial visit. These images can help to identify heel spurs when present and rule out other causes of pain such as arthritis or a stress fracture.
First line treatments for plantar fasciitis typically include recommendations for supportive shoes or arch supports, a review of the most effective stretches, and often the dispensing of a device called a night splint which helps stretch the plantar fascia while a patient sleeps. Second line treatments include cortisone injections or a prescription anti-inflammatory medications. Physical therapy can also be an effective treatment, particularly ASTYM and dry needling. ASTYM is similar to a scraping of tendons that can help them to heal, and dry needling is similar to medical acupuncture. In severe cases, a walking boot or a cast can be helpful.
Surgery for plantar fasciitis is indicated for roughly 5% of cases, where appropriate non-surgical treatments have been exhausted.
Plantar Fasciitis Treatment in Baton Rouge
My Baton Rouge office treats plantar fasciitis on a daily basis. If you are suffering from foot or heel pain and believe that plantar fasciitis may be the cause,
schedule an appointment with our office, where we can provide a definitive diagnosis and develop a treatment plan.
