Plantar fasciitis is a prevalent foot condition caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia, which is a thick band of tissue running along the bottom of the foot, connecting the heel bone to the toes. It often results from overuse, wearing improper footwear, or high-impact activities. Symptoms can include sharp, stabbing heel pain, particularly noticeable with the first steps in the morning or after periods of inactivity. The pain may also increase after prolonged standing or intense physical activity. To ease the pain, stretching exercises targeting the Achilles tendon and plantar fascia can be beneficial. Using mild pain relievers and wearing supportive shoes or orthotic inserts can also help. If you have persistent pain from plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist to see if corticosteroid injections might help to reduce inflammation and promote healing, in addition to other viable treatment methods.

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 Dr. Scott Shrem from Garden State Foot & Ankle Center. 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 our office located in Hazlet, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.