Ever felt a stabbing pain in your heel when you first get out of bed or stand up after sitting for a while? That could be plantar fasciitis. It happens when the tissue that connects your heel bone
to your toes (the plantar fascia) gets irritated or inflamed. Plantar fasciitis can be a real pain in the foot, but there is hope. Let’s break down what it is, how it’s treated, and how you can keep
those feet happy and healthy.
What causes Plantar fasciitis?
Overuse: Engaging in activities that place repetitive stress on the feet, such as running or standing for prolonged periods, can lead to microtears in the plantar fascia.
Improper Footwear: Wearing shoes without adequate arch support or cushioning can exacerbate strain on the plantar fascia, increasing the risk of inflammation and pain.
Biomechanical Issues: Flat feet, high arches, or abnormal walking patterns can alter the distribution of weight on the feet, predisposing individuals to plantar fasciitis.
Obesity: Excess body weight places added pressure on the feet, further straining the plantar fascia and increasing the likelihood of developing this condition.
How Do We Fix It?
There is a range of tailored treatment options and plans to each patient’s unique needs, considering factors such as lifestyle, severity of symptoms, and medical history. Remember, we are not just looking to alleviate pain, but also promote healing for plantar fasciitis.
Anti-inflammatory medication: Sometimes, a little medicine or a shot can help calm down the inflammation and get you feeling better, but these medications DO NOT promote healing.
Advanced Therapies: From innovative regenerative treatments like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy to cutting-edge Class IV Laser and Shockwave therapies, there is an array of the latest
advancements in medical technology to expedite healing and improve outcomes. I offer these options in my in-person practice in Livermore, California.
Orthotic Devices: Custom orthotic inserts and supportive footwear can provide function and stability, reducing strain on the plantar fascia, alleviating symptoms and preventing recurrence.
Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: I train on a combination of both type of exercises, specific for the type of foot and gait that the patient presents with.
How to Keep It from Coming Back?
Nobody wants a repeat of plantar fasciitis! Here’s how to keep those feet happy:
Pick the Right Shoes: Say goodbye to tight, unsupportive shoes and hello to comfy kicks with good arch support.
Take It Easy: Don’t overdo it! Gradually increase your activity level to avoid putting too much strain on your feet.
Stretch Daily: Spend a few minutes each day stretching your calves and feet to keep them flexible and happy. I will guide and teach you on how to properly stretch.
Watch Your Weight: Extra pounds can put extra pressure on your feet, so try to keep a healthy weight.
Listen to Your Feet: If something feels off, don’t ignore it! Get help and reach out to me.
Conclusion: Stride Forward with Confidence
Don’t let plantar fasciitis slow you down! Let’s get in touch so you can kiss foot pain goodbye and get back to doing the things you love. Say hello to happy, healthy feet and take that first step toward a pain-free future today!
Nora Zoe Ramos-Carthew, DPM
