Plantar Fasciitis

What is plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis strikes when the thick band of tissue (called the plantar fascia) that runs along the bottom of your foot becomes irritated and inflamed, causing:

• Intense pain at the bottom of your foot
• Stabbing heel pain
• Foot swelling
• Throbbing
• Burning sensation
• Pain that worsens after activity

The pain is particularly sharp when you get out of bed in the morning or after you’ve been sitting for long periods.

What causes plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is caused by repetitive stress and strain on your plantar fascia. Some factors that contribute to this include:

Obesity

Excess weight takes a toll on the joints and tissues in your feet by putting extra pressure on them. 

Physical activities

Physical activities like running, dancing, and jumping can cause wear-and-tear on your ligaments and plantar fascia.

Certain jobs

If your job requires long periods of standing or walking, such as a cashier, barista, or server, you’re at a higher risk for the condition.

Foot problems

Flat feet, fallen arches, or an unusual gait can lead to plantar fasciitis.

Small tears in your plantar fascia can progress and, if left untreated, affect your mobility.

How is plantar fasciitis diagnosed?

Your podiatrist performs a physical exam of your foot and reviews your medical history. He’ll check for tender or painful areas in your foot and evaluate your range of motion. To rule out other potential causes of your pain, you may need an imaging test like an X-ray or an MRI.

After diagnosing plantar fasciitis, your doctor works closely with you to develop a treatment plan that suits your needs and lifestyle.

What treatments are available for plantar fasciitis?

The team at Southwest Foot & Ankle offers a range of solutions, including:

• Orthotics: Special shoe inserts designed to improve the structure and mechanics of your foot
• Night splint: Holds your foot in a specific position that boosts healing while you’re sleeping
• Physical therapy: Targeted exercises to stretch and strengthen the muscles and plantar fascia in your feet
• Injections: For pain relief and inflammation reduction
• Multiwave locked system (MLS®) laser therapy: A noninvasive healing laser treatment to alleviate pain and inflammation

If these treatments don’t provide the relief you need, your podiatrist may recommend surgery at one of Southwest Foot & Ankle’s partner facilities, St. George Surgical Center or Dixie Regional Medical Center.

Get back on your feet with compassionate plantar fasciitis care. Call to schedule an appointment or book online.