Plantar Fasciitis Treatment in South Carolina

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that primarily causes heel pain. The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, connecting your heel bone to your toes. This tissue can become inflamed due to excessive stress or strain, leading to plantar fasciitis.

Plantar Fasciitis Symptoms

When you have plantar fasciitis, you may feel a stabbing pain near your heel, at the bottom of your foot. This pain is usually the worst when you take your first steps after waking up in the morning, or when you stand or walk after sitting for a long time.

You might also feel pain after exercising, but interestingly, not usually during the workout. Sometimes, the pain might decrease as you move around, but your foot could start to ache as the day goes on.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

This condition is usually caused by straining the plantar fascia, the ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. This ligament is important because it supports your arch and helps you walk. Strain on this ligament can make it get irritated or swollen.

Age can also play a role, as plantar fasciitis is more common in people between the ages of 40 and 60. Wearing shoes that don’t give your feet proper support can contribute too. However, anyone can get it and it’s not always clear why it happens.

Treatment Options for Plantar Fasciitis

Treating plantar fasciitis often involves steps you can take at home, as well as some treatments that your doctor may suggest. Here are some common treatments:

• Rest and ice – Taking a break from activities that make your foot hurt can help. Icing your foot for 15-20 minutes several times a day can also reduce pain and swelling
• Pain relievers – Over-the-counter medicines like ibuprofen and naproxen can help lessen pain and inflammation
• Physical therapy – Your doctor or a physical therapist can show you exercises to stretch your plantar fascia and Achilles tendon, and to strengthen your lower leg muscles. This can help stabilize your ankle and heel
• Good footwear – Wearing shoes with good arch support and a cushioned sole can help. Avoid going barefoot, especially on hard surfaces
• Night splints – Your doctor might recommend a splint that stretches your calf and the arch of your foot while you sleep. This holds the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon in a lengthened position overnight to promote stretching
• Orthotics – These are custom-fitted arch supports that you put into your shoes to help distribute pressure more evenly in your feet
• Surgery – If nonsurgical and home treatments do not releive your symptoms, you may consider foot surgery

Plantar Fasciitis Care in South Carolina

If you notice any of the symptoms mentioned above, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Carolina Orthopaedic & Neurosurgical Associates. Schedule an appointment at any of our locations that is most convenient for you. Our team is here to support your journey to a pain-free lifestyle.