Heel Pain and Plantar Fasciitis

Heel Pain and Plantar Fasciitis Doctor

Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the band of tissue (the plantar fascia) that extends from the heel to the toes. In this condition, the fascia first becomes irritated and then inflamed, resulting in heel pain.

The most common cause of plantar fasciitis relates to a faulty structure of the foot. For example, people who have problems with their arches, either overly flat feet or high-arched feet, are more prone to developing plantar fasciitis.

Wearing non-supportive footwear on hard, flat surfaces puts an abnormal strain on the plantar fascia and can also lead to plantar fasciitis. This is particularly evident when one’s job requires long hours on the feet. Obesity may also contribute to plantar fasciitis.

Heel Pain and Plantar Fasciitis Symptoms

• Pain on the bottom of the heel
• Pain in the arch of the foot
• Pain that is usually worse upon arising
• Pain that increases over a period of months
• Pain that is worse when you get up in the morning or after you have been sitting for long periods of time

Plantar Fasciitis, also know as policeman’s heel, can vary in the severity of pain people feel. If Dr. Drucker feels it necessary we are able to provide our in-office x-ray service to determine if there is a skeletal problem that needs to be addressed, such as a heel spur.

Our patients love having the ability to receive an x-ray immediately upon their first consultation to help identify the cause of pain and get treatment quickly.

Treatments for Heel Pain and Plantar Fasciitis

• Ice therapy
• Daily stretching exercises
• Supportive shoe gear
• Over-the-counter or custom orthotics for arch support
• Anti-inflammatory medication
• Physical therapy
• Cortisone injections
• Orthotripsy/shock-wave therapy
• Surgical release of the plantar fascia