The plantar fascia is a long band of thick ligament on the bottom of the foot which connects the heel bone with the toes. Overuse during athletic activities or exercising/working on hard surfaces can damage the plantar fascia. Wearing ill-fitting shoes, gaining weight rapidly, or having flat feet or a tight Achilles tendon can also stress or tear the plantar fascia, causing it to become inflamed and painful. When this occurs, it is known as plantar fasciitis. People with plantar fasciitis usually experience pain on the bottom of the heel, however it can be felt anywhere in the heel. This pain may be dull or sharp, and it is at its worst first thing in the morning, after periods of rest or intense activity. Accompanying symptoms may include a tightness or stiffness in the heel or Achilles tendon, or a swollen heel. Since leaving the condition untreated may lead to chronic plantar fasciitis, professional care from a podiatrist is suggested for treatment.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. Gary Cesar  from Michigan Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Lansing and Mt. Pleasant, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.