Plantar fasciitis is considered to be one of the most common causes of heel pain. This condition produces inflammation in the thick band of tissue that spans the bottom of the foot, connecting the heel bone to the base of the toes. Plantar fasciitis is more common for runners, as well as those who are overweight or who often wear improper footwear.

Identify what plantar fasciitis is, the most common symptoms patients experience, and how Comprehensive Foot Specialists diagnoses and treats plantar fasciitis at our office in Huntington, NY.

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

The plantar fascia is a connective tissue that spans the bottom surface of the foot to support the arch. Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of this structure, which causes heel pain. This discomfort is most often seen during your first steps in the morning or succeeding a long period of rest. Plantar fasciitis often affects one foot, but both feet are affected in approximately one-third of cases. Some of the common symptoms of plantar fasciitis include:

• Stabbing pain in the bottom of your foot, near the heel
• Intense pain in the morning (taking the first steps after waking up)
• Intense pain after standing or sitting for a long period of time
• Pain that is worse after exercise, not during it
• Heel stiffness
• Irritation and inflammation

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

The exact cause of plantar fasciitis is unclear, however, risk factors may include: overuse, increases in exercise with inappropriate shoes, and weight gain/obesity. Heel spurs are often found in conjunction with plantar fasciitis, however, it is not entirely clear if they play a role in causing this disorder. Rather, plantar fasciitis is a condition where the insertion of this structure into the heel bone is characterized by micro-tears and disruption of collagen.

How is Plantar Fasciitis Diagnosed?

Plantar fasciitis is diagnosed during a physical examination, where the doctor will look for sections of swelling and tenderness in the foot. The area where the pain originates from can further support and determine its cause. The doctor may also perform an X-ray and/or an MRI to confirm if there is an additional issue, such as a stress fracture, that is causing the pain.

How Comprehensive Foot Specialists Treat Plantar Fasciitis

Depending on the extent and chronicity of the condition, plantar fasciitis envelops a range of treatment options. In less severe cases, the symptoms may resolve with time and/or conservative treatment including rest/limiting activities, stretching, ice, orthotics, and NSAIDs. However, if these treatments are not successful in reducing symptoms and inflammation, corticosteroid injections are sometimes used. In even more severe and unrelenting cases, surgery is indicated as a last resort. This includes a plantar fasciotomy, which involves cutting a small portion of the plantar fascia, which is performed in a surgical center. The patient is then placed in a compressive dressing and allowed to weight bear the same day in a surgical shoe.

At Comprehensive Foot Specialists, we are passionate about treating a variety of foot conditions, including plantar fasciitis. We serve all our patients at our conveniently located office based in Huntington, NY. Our incredible team of qualified doctors will help you every step of the way, so your condition can be addressed and you can live the most comfortable life possible. To learn more about the services we offer and how we can treat your plantar fasciitis, please contact us today.