|
When you wake up in the morning, are your first few steps the most painful steps of the day? Does your heel ache when you stand up after sitting for a long period of time? This pattern of pain is commonly associated with plantar fasciitis, a condition that manifests as heel pain, usually after a period of rest . Involving pain and inflammation of a thick band of tissue, called the plantar fascia, this dense tissue connects your heel bone to your toes and helps to support your arch. Normal daily activities, as well as exercise, overuse and anything that applies extra pressure to the feet can strain the plantar fascia, ultimately leading to plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis is common in runners, but also in people who are overweight, pregnant women and those who wear shoes with inadequate support, but affects just about everybody and foot type, and is the most common condition for which patients visit a NYC podiatrist. The condition usually affects one foot at a time, although it is also seen in both feet in some patients. When pain is experienced, your initial step should be to contact your New York City podiatrist for further examination, so treatment can be initiated as early as possible. Plantar Fasciitis Causes and Symptoms Caused by straining of the ligament that supports your arch, plantar fasciitis manifests as foot pain while standing or walking. Repeated strain on your ligaments can cause tiny tears to occur, which can lead to pain and swelling. Over time the ligament may develop calcification, which on Xray may have a spur like appearance, hence the common name heel spurs. In reality though, the pain is caused by the soft tissue inflammation within the plantar fascia, and not the heel spur itself. In fact, it is estimated that 30-40% of the population has a non-painful heel spur. Plantar fasciitis is often associated with: ? Obesity or sudden weight gain ? Exercise and running ? Too much pressure on your heels ? Foot abnormalities ? Wearing shoes that don't fit well Some symptoms of plantar fasciitis include: ? Pain on the bottom of the heel ? Pain that is usually worse upon arising ? Pain that increases over a period of time ? Throbbing pain, especially at the end of the day After a few minutes of walking your pain may decrease or completely resolve temporarily because walking stretches the fascia. For some people, the pain may subside for a moment, but will return after spending long periods of time on their feet. Heel Pain Treatment and Prevention Treatment for plantar fasciitis can begin at home with strategies such as: ? Stretching activities ? Avoid going barefoot ? Ice the area ? Limit your activities ? Modify your shoes Footwear selection is also an important criterion when treating heel pain. Shoes that contain a firm heel counter, good arch support, and appropriate heel height are the ideal choice for comforting your pain. If your pain persists, contact your New York podiatrist for further consultation and treatment of your symptoms and ailments. Your NYC podiatrist can further evaluate your condition by examining the foot, and by utilizing advanced imaging techniques that are available in the office. Further treatment may involve a safe and effective injection of cortisone, in office physical therapy as well as the use of custom fitted arch supports, or orthotics. Your podiatrist can also work with you to provide long term conditioning and support to help minimize the chance of a recurrence. Avoid plantar fasciitis with the help of your podiatrist and proper prevention. Dr. Ernest L. Isaacson is a leading Manhattan podiatrist. Focusing on quality care, convenience and a comfortable patient experience, this Manhattan podiatrist offers a wide variety of foot care and treatment, including treatment for NYC heel pain, bunions, and foot surgery in Manhattan and New York City.
Related Articles -
Manhattan podiatrist, NYC heel pain,
| 
