Effective Treatments for Plantar Fasciitis

Modern Foot & Ankle offers comprehensive care for patients suffering from plantar fasciitis, a painful inflammation of the connective tissue on the bottom of the foot. Plantar fasciitis can significantly impact daily activities and overall quality of life. Early diagnosis and proper medical care can improve mobility and alleviate discomfort for patients with plantar fasciitis. This guide will help you understand the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for plantar fasciitis and how our expert team of podiatrists can provide personalized care to manage this condition.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?  

Plantar fasciitis is an injury or overuse syndrome involving the plantar fascia ligament in the arch of the foot that runs from the ball of the foot to the bottom of the heel. This band of tissue is protective to the deep structures of the foot and is not a primary stabilizer of the archway.

One could get plantar fasciitis through overuse or strain of the bottom of the foot. The symptoms of plantar fasciitis are characterized as sharp with the first few steps in the morning and also in the evening after increased activities or with temporary pain relief as it is “warmed up” during light walking and massage.

Understanding Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain, resulting from inflammation of the plantar fascia, a fibrous tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot. This condition is prevalent among athletes and individuals who are on their feet for extended periods.

Causes of plantar fasciitis include:

• Over-activity
• Flat feet or fallen arches
• Heredity
• Obesity
• Overuse
• Poorly-fitted shoes
• Trauma or fracture

Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis

Patients with plantar fasciitis may experience the following symptoms:

• Stabbing or shooting pain at or around the heel bone
• Pain during the first step in the morning or after long periods of rest
• Pain in the heel or arch with increased activity
• Pain when walking
• Swelling

How We Treat Plantar Fasciitis  

Although some instances of chronic plantar fasciitis may need surgical care, conservative plantar fasciitis treatment seems to be the best route to treat patients with plantar fasciitis.

About 70% of the patients in our office will have immediate relief with injection therapy, and permanent relief from both heel and arch pain with custom molded orthotics.

Conservative Plantar Fasciitis Treatments  

Rest  

Crutches and non-weight bearing on the affected foot pain for 1 to 3 weeks is the best care for this kind of overuse syndrome or injury, but a simple decrease in activities may relieve symptoms. Avoid bare feet and shoes without support (**sandals**, flip-flops, house shoes, etc.).

Stretching  

Stretching in the morning and evening using the proper technique will speed recovery and minimize re-injury. Stretches for plantar fasciitis are essential.

Medication  

Anti-inflammatory medication can help with chronic pain associated to avoid plantar fasciitis pain, but is not much help with the acute pain.

Injection  

An anesthetic (numbing agent) mixed with cortisone (anti-inflammatory) is placed at the point of pain to relieve the sharp pain associated with the first few steps in the morning, or with pain at night after increased activities.

Arch Support  

Temporary arch supports, supportive athletic shoes, or a higher heel on a shoe will all provide additional rest to the injured ligament. Custom molded orthotics are the best solution for immediate and longer-term treatment.

Night Splints  

A night splint is a device that keeps a constant tension on the ligament while it is healing by keeping the foot at a 90-degree angle to the lower leg and can be beneficial to the healing process of plantar fasciitis.

Physical Therapy  

Examples of physical therapy that can assist with plantar fasciitis include massage, cold therapy, contrast baths, stretching, ultrasound, and electric stimulation.

Surgical Treatment for Plantar Fasciitis  

Surgical procedures have a high success rate and are usually performed in a small procedure room or outpatient surgical center under light anesthesia.

Several effective procedures exist, but releasing the plantar fascia ligament near the heel with or without removing an existing heel spurs will essentially lengthen the ligament and provide permanent relief.

The incision is minimal (1cm to ½ inch) at the inside of the heel, and sutures are removed after 2 weeks. The procedures are relatively short, and the postoperative period averages 1-2 weeks with partial weight bearing with or without a cam walker – postoperative shoe.

Insurance Coverage for Plantar Fasciitis

Many insurance plans cover treatments for Plantar Fasciitis if they're medically necessary, which means your podiatrist has recommended them to treat this foot condition or improve your foot function. However, coverage varies. Some plans may not cover certain treatments or may only cover part of the cost.

Before starting your treatment for Plantar Fasciitis, it's a good idea to check with your insurance provider. Ask about your coverage and any costs you might have to pay.

At Modern Foot & Ankle, we're here to help. We're proud to be in-network with all major insurance plans, which can make the process smoother and more affordable for you. Our team can assist you in understanding your coverage and guide you through the process. We're committed to providing you with personalized care, including treatments designed to alleviate your pain and improve your foot health.

Why Choose Us for Plantar Fasciitis Care

At Modern Foot & Ankle, we are dedicated to providing exceptional, patient-centered care for a variety of foot and ankle conditions, including plantar fasciitis. Our team of skilled podiatrists and surgeons utilize the latest techniques and technology to deliver effective treatments that reduce pain, improve function, and restore mobility.

When you choose Modern Foot & Ankle for your plantar fasciitis care, you can expect:

1. Personalized Treatment Plans - We work closely with each patient to develop a customized treatment plan that caters to their unique needs and goals.
2. Advanced Techniques and Technology - Our team employs widely accepted techniques and technology to provide safe, efficient treatments for plantar fasciitis.
3. Compassionate Care - We understand that dealing with plantar fasciitis pain can be stressful and overwhelming, and we are committed to offering compassionate care and support throughout your treatment journey.
4. Experienced Specialists - Our team of podiatric specialists has extensive experience in managing plantar fasciitis and other foot and ankle conditions.
5. Convenient Locations - With multiple locations across the region, we make it easy to access high-quality care close to home.

Don't let plantar fasciitis pain prevent you from enjoying your daily activities. Contact Modern Foot & Ankle today to schedule an appointment and learn more about our plantar fasciitis care options.