Have you ever experienced severe, stabbing pain in your arch and/or heel? Especially when you first step out of bed in the morning? You may suffer from symptoms of plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel and arch pain and can prevent people from participating in the activities they love. It involves inflammation of a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot and connects your heel bone to your toes (plantar fascia).
Several things can contribute to plantar fasciitis. While men can get plantar fasciitis, an interesting fact is that it is most common in women. You are also more likely to suffer from this condition as you age, if you are on your feet for several hours a day, or if you are overweight.
Iowa Ortho’s expert foot and ankle specialists begin their plantar fasciitis treatment process with an examination of your foot to pinpoint where the pain is coming from. This exam, along with your medical history, will help diagnose the condition. Our doctors may also order imaging tests so they can rule out any other causes of the pain such as stress fractures or pinched nerves.
Depending on your diagnosis, Iowa Ortho offers non-surgical treatment options in addition to surgical intervention.
Non-surgical options may include:
- Ice and stretching: This combined helps keep the plantar fascia from inflaming and causing pain. Stretching may include home exercises, or prescribed physical therapy stretching.
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): To help with your pain and reduce inflammation of the plantar fascia.
- Steroid injections: Sometimes, if your pain is so severe or doesn’t respond to prescribed NSAIDs, an injection to the plantar fascia may help ease your pain. The injections can help decrease the inflammation for longer than NSAIDs.
- Orthotics: By wearing a custom insole that is specific to your needs, you may also relieve symptoms of plantar fasciitis.
If progress isn’t shown after several months, our team may recommend a different treatment than above, including surgery.
If you find you are suffering from symptoms of this painful condition or have questions about treatment options, call Iowa Ortho today at 515-247-8400 and schedule an appointment with one of our foot and ankle specialists.