If you have consistent pain and discomfort in the heel of your foot, you may have a medical condition that is referred to as plantar fasciitis. It will typically target people who are active in running sports, or for those who stand for the majority of the day. This ailment is a result of inflammation that occurs in the long portion of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, which links the toes to the heel, and this is known as the plantar fascia. A common symptom of this ailment is severe heel pain, which may often be worse in the morning when the first steps are taken. Some patients have specific tendencies that may encourage the development of this condition, including being overweight, wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, or are born with flat feet or high arches. There are possible techniques that may offer moderate relief, and these may include performing proper foot stretches, resting your feet as often as possible, or wearing shoe inserts. If you have developed this condition, it’s suggested to speak with a podiatrist to understand what treatment options are correct for you.

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 Brent Harwood, DPM from Southeast Podiatry. 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?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

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

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

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 one of our offices located in Fairhope, Brewton, and Atmore, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.