Plantar Fasciitis: Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment
Plantar fasciitis occurs when the band that stretches across the bottom of the foot becomes inflamed. It can result in pain and discomfort. The pain is most noticeable in the mornings, and it can make it hard to walk and run. It is most common in runners, but it can also affect people who are overweight and people who wear shoes with poor support. It can be treated and prevented.
Plantar Fasciitis Causes
The plantar fascia is designed to help support the arches. If the plantar fascia becomes too stretched, it can tear. Plantar fasciitis often sprouts from overuse or strain, especially in activities that stress the foot’s arch. Factors like improper footwear, high-impact sports, obesity, and tight Achilles tendons can trigger inflammation in the plantar fascia. Too much running, climbing or injuries to the foot can all cause plantar fasciitis, but most of the time, the cause is unknown.
Plantar Fasciitis Symptoms
Plantar fasciitis can be a stealthy culprit, masquerading as various other foot conditions due to its overlapping symptoms. Familiarizing yourself with the distinct indicators of plantar fasciitis is crucial in navigating the maze of foot ailments. The symptoms of the plantar fascia can vary by individual. Some people only experience mild symptoms, while others suffer from symptoms that are so severe that they can make it hard to walk. The most common symptoms of plantar fasciitis include:
- Heel pain
- Pain in the bottom of the foot
- Pressure on the bottom of the foot
- Ankle pain
- Foot pain after exercise
- Foot pain after waking up or after long periods of sitting
To avoid misdiagnosis, pay attention to the nuances of your symptoms. If the pain is predominantly beneath the heel, especially during those initial steps of the day, plantar fasciitis may be the culprit. Consult with a healthcare professional for a precise diagnosis and discuss possible treatments like Selphyl Ortho.
Plantar Fasciitis Diagnosis
Doctors can diagnose plantar fasciitis based on symptoms and a physical exam. The doctor will inspect the foot and put pressure on certain spots to find out where the pain is. Doctors rarely perform tests, but if they decide tests are necessary, the tests they conduct may include:
MRI: This will show the doctor what the foot looks like on the inside and can rule out other food problems.
X-ray: X-rays can show if the plantar fascia is inflamed or if there are any other issues that could be causing the pain, such as a bone spur.
Plantar Fasciitis Treatment
Most doctors recommend a simple self-care treatment for plantar fasciitis. Doctors may recommend simple treatments such as:
- Rest
- Ice packs
- Stretching
- Over-the-counter medications
If these treatments don’t help the condition improve within a week or so, doctors may recommend other treatment options. These may include:
- Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can recommend stretches and exercises that can help reduce pain and make the plantar fascia less likely to tear.
- PRP Injections: Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) injections emerge as a beacon of hope for those grappling with the persistent agony of plantar fasciitis. The procedure involves extracting a small sample of your blood, enriching it with a concentrated dose of platelets, and strategically injecting it into the affected area. This accelerates the healing process by promoting cell regeneration and repairing damaged tissues. By directly addressing the inflamed tissues, the treatment targets the root cause of the pain, providing not just temporary relief, but a potential long-term solution.
- Night Splints: The splints help stretch the calves and arches while the person sleeps. This prevents the plantar fascia from cramping and helps keep it flexible at night.
- Orthotics: The doctor may recommend off-the-shelf arch support or may even write a prescription for them. The arch supports to allow the plantar fascia to rest while still supporting the arches.
Plantar Fasciitis Prognosis
Most people who have plantar fasciitis struggle with it throughout their lives. Treatments can help tremendously, but the pain can return. Some people also only experience it once or twice in their lives and have mild symptoms. In some cases, the condition can become more severe and require different treatments. Some people also have back and hip pain as a result of the condition. It is important to experiment with different treatment options to find the one that works best.
