Patrick Hall, D.P.M. - Expert Ankle Conditions Doctor in Baton Rouge
Baton Rouge Plantar Fasciitis Foot Specialist
Dr. Patrick Hall is a long-standing, respected expert in the field of podiatric medicine. He is board-certified by the American Board of Podiatric Surgery and is a co-author of the 4th edition of McGlamry’s Comprehensive Textbook of Foot and Ankle Surgery.
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is the most common foot condition treated in Dr. Patrick Hall's Baton Rouge office. “Plantar” just means bottom of the foot, and “fascia” is a tendon-like band on the bottom of the foot that helps support the arch.
Most patients with plantar fasciitis complain of “first step” pain when getting out bed in the morning that eases with activity and recurs after short intervals of rest. Patients suffering from this condition generally point to the bottom of their heel or along their arch as the areas of maximum pain. It can range from a mild aggravation to very limiting depending on its severity.
What are the Causes of Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is typically an overuse or repetitive strain injury. Overuse is often the result of occupation such as a teacher who is on his or her feet all day, or a line cook or plant worker who stands all day on hard, unyielding surfaces. Repetitive strain can also be an athlete or a distance runner whose feet absorb significant stress during training. It usually develops gradually, over time and is not often related to an acute injury or direct trauma.
What are Treatments for Plantar Fasciitis?
The good news with plantar fasciitis is that 95% of it resolves, and it is a very treatable condition. If you Google plantar fasciitis, you will find endless gadgets and treatment options. Often simple measures can help resolve this condition. A physical exam from an expert in plantar fasciitis is helpful to confirm a diagnosis and to distinguish it from other similar problems like tendinitis or a stress fracture. X-rays are also helpful to evaluate the presence or absence of a bone spur, stress fracture or an arthritic condition.
Initial treatments usually include stretches and arch support. Physical therapy, walking boot and other treatments can also be helpful. There is a surgical treatment for plantar fasciitis, but it should be reserved for patients who have failed all reasonable non-surgical options.
If you are struggling with plantar fasciitis and have questions about this condition, make an appointment with Patrick Hall, DPM today.
How Can Your Prevent Plantar Fasciitis?
Prevention begins with stretching and arch support. Tight calf and hamstring muscles put additional stress along the bottom of the foot. Ten minutes of stretching before or after a run can help alleviate some of that stress.
Plantar Fasciitis Videos for Baton Rouge Patients
Blogs on Plantar Fasciitis & Treatment Options for Baton Rouge Patients
