Plantar Fasciitis Treatment in Conway or Heber Springs
Plantar Fasciitis: Heel pain is frequently associated with plantar fasciitis. It is an inflammation of the band of fibrous connective tissue (fascia) running along the bottom (plantar surface) of the foot, from the heel to the ball of the foot. It is the most common problem that podiatrists treat. Plantar fasciitis affects a large number of folks, from every day people to athletes who run and jump a lot. If left untreated, it can be quite painful.
Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia is strained over time beyond its normal extension, causing the soft tissue fibers of the fascia to tear or stretch at points along its length; this leads to inflammation, pain, and possibly the growth of a bone spur where the plantar fascia attaches to the heel bone. The inflammation may be aggravated by shoes that lack appropriate support, especially in the arch area, and by the chronic irritation that sometimes accompanies an athletic lifestyle.
Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia is strained over time beyond its normal extension…
Resting provides only temporary relief. When you resume walking, particularly after a night’s sleep, you may experience a sudden elongation of the fascia band, which stretches and pulls on the heel. As you walk, the heel pain may lessen or even disappear, but that may be just a false sense of relief. The pain of plantar fasciitis often returns after prolonged rest or extensive walking.
When to Visit Dr. Seiter
If pain and other symptoms of inflammation—redness, swelling, heat—persist, limit normal daily activities and contact Dr. Seiter’s clinic.
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Diagnosis and Treatment
Dr. Seiter will examine the area and may perform diagnostic X-rays to rule out problems of the bone.
Early treatment might involve oral or injectable anti-inflammatory medication, exercise and shoe recommendations, taping or strapping, or use of shoe inserts or orthotic devices. Taping or strapping supports the foot, placing stressed muscles and tendons in a physiologically restful state. Physical therapy may be used in conjunction with such treatments.
A functional orthotic device may be prescribed for correcting biomechanical imbalance, controlling excessive pronation, and supporting the ligaments and tendons attaching to the heel bone. It will effectively treat the majority of heel and arch pain without the need for surgery.
Only a relatively few cases of heel pain require more advanced treatments or surgery. If surgery is necessary, it may involve the release of the plantar fascia, removal of a spur, removal of a bursa, or removal of a neuroma or other soft-tissue growth.