Plantar Fasciitis: Symptoms and Treatment
Plantar Fasciitis is the inflammation of the Plantar Fascia, a ligament that runs between your heel and the toes of your feet. The connective tissue between the heel and toes becomes inflamed and can be quite painful. The pain subsides with more activity, however can flare back up after periods of rest. Dr. Leon Watkins has created The Heeler to help those experiencing pain due to plantar fasciitis, pictured below, which you can purchase at the Gulf South Foot & Ankle office.
Plantar Fasciitis can be contributed to many things, some of which can be avoided and some can not. Strain Injury, High arches, pregnancy, and running can lead to inflammation of the plantar fascia and cause Plantar Fasciitis. Plantar Fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain, so it’s an ailment that many experience. The pain in your foot from Plantar Fasciitis may subside during the day, however it will often return after longer periods of rest.
A great way to try to avoid Plantar Fasciitis is to ensure that you’re wearing the right kind of shoe. A wide toe box on any shoe is beneficial because it gives your toes the space they need without compressing on them. Oftentimes Plantar Fasciitis will happen as the weather starts to become colder and you make the switch from summer to winter shoes. Your feet need time to adjust to a different style of shoe and support, therefore making the switch too quickly can inflame the plantar fascia causing pain.
In most cases Plantar Fasciitis can be treated with conservative care. Incorporating a stretching routine specific to your foot and heels can help with pain caused by Plantar Fasciitis by stretching the ligament making it more flexible. Purchasing night splits or The Heeler are also treatment options to consider. Night splints are worn while you sleep and The Heeler offers an ice massage to the bottom of your foot, stretching and cooling the inflamed ligament.
Gulf South Foot & Ankle has knowledgeable podiatrists that want to work with you to overcome your Plantar Fasciitis pain! Head to our website to learn more about Plantar Fasciitis or click here to schedule an appointment.