Treating Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition where the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, becomes inflamed and painful. This condition typically results from overuse or strain on the plantar fascia, causing tiny tears in the tissue.

The primary cause of plantar fasciitis is excessive stress on the foot's arch, often due to prolonged standing, walking, or running on hard surfaces. Additionally, tight calf muscles, improper footwear, obesity, and flat or high-arch foot structures can increase the risk. Symptoms of plantar fasciitis include sharp, stabbing heel pain, usually most severe in the morning or after long periods of rest. The pain may also intensify after prolonged periods of standing or physical activity.

If you experience persistent heel pain, it's advisable to consult the experienced podiatrists at Podiatry Services of CNY in North Syracuse, NY. They can accurately diagnose plantar fasciitis through a thorough evaluation of your medical history and a physical examination. Early intervention can prevent the condition from worsening and help you find relief through customized treatment plans, orthotic devices, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications.

Treating Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis, a common foot ailment, often necessitates treatment to alleviate pain and restore mobility. Non-invasive approaches are typically the initial course of action. Stretching exercises, such as calf and plantar fascia stretches, can be beneficial. Rolling a frozen water bottle under your foot or using arch-supporting inserts in your shoes can provide relief. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can reduce inflammation and pain.

Should non-invasive methods prove insufficient, you may consider invasive treatments. Corticosteroid injections, administered by a podiatrist, can provide short-term pain relief by reducing inflammation but avoid overuse due to potential side effects.

Our podiatrist may recommend more invasive options for severe cases resistant to conservative measures. Surgery is typically a last resort for plantar fasciitis in North Syracuse, NY. Surgical intervention may involve releasing the plantar fascia from the heel bone or removing a heel spur.

Plantar Fasciitis Diagnosis and Prevention

Diagnosing plantar fasciitis involves a thorough evaluation by our podiatrist. Symptoms include heel pain, often acute in the morning or after prolonged rest. Diagnosis may include a physical examination and imaging like X-rays or MRI to rule out other issues.

Preventing plantar fasciitis involves several strategies. Maintain a healthy weight to reduce strain on the foot, choose supportive footwear with cushioning and arch support, and avoid walking barefoot on hard surfaces. Regular stretching and strengthening exercises for the calf and foot muscles can also help prevent this painful condition.

Please explore our website to learn about the conditions we treat and the services provided. Take the first step towards a pain-free life today by consulting with a specialist and exploring personalized treatment options for plantar fasciitis in North Syracuse, NY. To book an appointment with our podiatrists at Podiatry Services of CNY, call (315) 458-1777.