The plantar regions of the foot include the heel, the arch, and the midfoot. If you begin to notice pain in these regions of your foot, it’s possible you may have a condition that is known as plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis can develop for a number of different reasons. When the plantar fascia, the connective tissue from the heel to the ball of your foot, has too much stress put on it, it may become inflamed, overtightened, or torn. Common causes of over stressing the plantar fascia include obesity, arthritis, a sudden increase in physical activity, and wearing improper footwear. Pain will typically be felt in the plantar region when first getting out of bed in the morning, after sitting, standing, or walking for long periods of time, and when climbing stairs. To best diagnose if you in fact have plantar fasciitis, it is suggested you have an X-ray taken. For professional care and an advised treatment plan, we recommend you consult with a podiatrist as soon as you feel pain in your foot.
Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Bruce Smit, DPM from Frankfort Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.
Prevention
There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Frankfort, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
