Bothered by Heel Pain? It Could be Plantar Fasciitis

If you suspect that your heel pain is due to plantar fasciitis, there’s a good chance you’re correct, since it’s the most common cause of pain at the bottom of your heel, affecting more than 2 million people in the United States every year. Because your feet are in gear every day, it can be hard to get a handle on plantar fasciitis pain. 

At Hudson Valley Foot Associates, we have both nonsurgical and surgical solutions for your plantar fasciitis symptoms. With locations across the Hudson Valley, there’s no reason for you to put off treatment of this often persistent form of foot and heel pain. 

Recognizing plantar fasciitis

The common signs of plantar fasciitis present as aching or stabbing pain most often occurring at the heel or along the bottom of your foot. Pain stems from micro tears to the plantar fascia, a tough band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot. 

If you compare the anatomy of your foot to a wide arrow-shooting bow, the bones of your foot’s arch would form the bow itself, while the plantar fascia represents the drawstring. Instead of launching arrows, the plantar fascia supports your foot’s arch and acts as a stretchy shock absorber to dampen the effects of each footfall. 

Micro tears can collect and cause inflammation in the fascia tissue. Since you use your feet often throughout virtually every day, your feet may not have time for complete healing. 

Heel pain from plantar fasciitis is usually at its worst first thing in the morning, though it may loosen up. You can trigger it through the day if you stand for long periods. Pain may also return as you get up from a sitting position. 

Treating plantar fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis can be treated and in some cases, managing your symptoms may help you get past the problem, particularly if your condition is mild. There are other causes of heel pain, including: 

• Bruises: Foot bone bruises may not discolor but generally create tender spots
• Stress fractures: Can create pain below, on the back, or bottom of your heel
• Bursitis and tendonitis: These tend to create pain at the back of the heel

If you’re unsure what’s causing your heel pain, schedule a visit with us. When you have a history of plantar fasciitis, you can treat its reemergence with the following therapies: 

• Over-the-counter (OTC) nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, including ibuprofen and naproxen
• Ice packs: These reduce swelling and control pain
• Orthotics: Custom or OTC shoe inserts add cushioning and arch support

We may recommend these at-home treatments when you visit us for a consultation. In addition, we offer: 

• Corticosteroids: Providing strong local anti-inflammatory effects
• Physical therapy: Various modalities can help improve circulation and break up fascial scar tissue
• Casts, splints, and walking boots: More advanced cases of plantar fasciitis may require foot immobilization

Surgery is rarely necessary as a treatment for plantar fasciitis. 

Contact Hudson Valley Foot Associates at our most convenient location. Schedule your appointment by phone or online today.