How to Relieve Plantar Fasciitis

Pain in the heels and arches of your feet could be an indication that you have a condition known as plantar fasciitis. The condition develops when the connective plantar fascia tissues that run along the bottom of the foot become inflamed and irritated. Plantar fasciitis can cause extensive discomfort, but some treatments can provide relief. The skilled podiatrists at Regional Foot and Ankle Specialists in Turnersville and Pennsauken NJ can recommend plantar fasciitis treatment options to help you achieve relief from heel and arch pain.

Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis

Two primary signs that you have plantar fasciitis include experiencing pain in both the heels and arches of the feet. Additionally, pain in the heels or arches is often more intense first thing in the morning before you have had a chance to stretch the feet. Foot pain can also be severe after sitting for extended periods. Briefly walking around to stretch the feet can help lessen the pain.

Finally, heel pain can become progressively worse over time if plantar fasciitis is left untreated. What might seem like minor discomfort at first can turn into significant pain over a few months, which is why it is important to seek treatment. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, see one of the Turnersville plantar fasciitis experts to find out if plantar fasciitis is the cause of your foot pain.

Causes of Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis can be caused by various factors. One common cause of the condition is overpronating when walking or running. Overpronating occurs when the feet roll inward and flatten as you take a step. As this happens, the arches become stretched out, which puts tension on the plantar fascia tissues. Persistent tension over time can cause these tissues to become inflamed and result in heel and arch pain. Other causes of plantar fasciitis include:

• Daily stress on the feet
• High-impact workouts
• Standing for extended periods
• Long-distance running
• Extensive walking
• Being overweight

Treatment for Plantar Fasciitis

There are many approaches to treating Turnersville plantar fasciitis. In addition to temporarily limiting physical activity, other conservative treatment methods include the use of anti-inflammatory medications, applying ice to areas that are inflamed and sore, and inserting custom orthotic devices in the shoes. Additional treatment options include stretching exercises and physical therapy. Some patients benefit from the use of padding and strapping, a removable walking cast, or a night splint. More serious cases of plantar fasciitis might require Extracorporeal Shock Wave Treatment (ESWT), which our podiatry team can explain in more detail.

It is possible to achieve relief from foot pain caused by plantar fasciitis. Our knowledgeable podiatry team can develop a treatment plan tailored specifically to your condition and needs. For the treatment of plantar fasciitis, call Regional Foot and Ankle Specialists in Turnersville NJ at (856) 875-8855. Appointments are also available at our office in Pennsauken NJ by calling (856) 488-5290.