If you experience a painful, stabbing sensation every time you put your heel on the floor, you may have a condition known as plantar fasciitis. At his Houston orthopedic office, Eugene Stautberg, MD offers the latest advancements for treating the pain of plantar fasciitis, including physical therapy referrals and corrective surgery. Don’t let plantar fasciitis pain stop you from doing what you want to do. Schedule a consultation online or by calling the orthopedic office in Houston.
What is plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. It results when the plantar fascia, the thick connective tissue that connects your toes to your heel bone, gets inflamed.
This band of tissue absorbs shock and stress on your feet when you are in motion. When the pressure on the plantar fascia becomes too great, it can result in tears in the tissue and lead to persistent inflammation.
What are the symptoms of plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis symptoms are often worse first thing in the morning or after long periods of sitting or standing.
The hallmark symptom of the condition is a chronic, stabbing pain in the heel area of your foot with the first step in the morning or after sitting for long periods of time.
What are the risk factors for plantar fasciitis?
You may be at increased risk for developing plantar fasciitis if you’re between the ages of 40 and 60. Plantar fasciitis is also more likely if you’re overweight.
If you work in a job that requires long periods of standing or walking, especially on hard surfaces, you may be at a higher risk for developing plantar fasciitis.
The design of your foot may also be a factor in the plantar fasciitis. If you have flat feet or a high arch, you may be putting extra pressure on the connective tissue of your heel, leading to persistent pain and walking difficulties.
How is plantar fasciitis treated?
Dr. Stautberg can determine if plantar fasciitis is causing your heel pain during an examination and a review of your medical history. He may suggest an X-ray or other imaging test to rule out fractures or other issues that may be causing your pain.
To alleviate plantar fasciitis pain, Dr. Stautberg may initially recommend rest and icing your heel several times a day. Over-the-counter pain relievers can keep you comfortable and prevent swelling.
Dr. Stautberg may also recommend physical therapy to stretch your plantar fascia and improve your mobility.
Custom-made orthotic inserts and supportive footwear can also lessen your pain and improve your mobility, as well as other bracing and splints.
If the pain of plantar fasciitis is interfering with your daily routine, schedule a consultation with Dr. Stautberg online or by calling his Houston office directly.
