Plantar Fasciitis Specialist

What causes plantar fasciitis?

Your heel bone connects to your toes by way of your plantar fascia, a long band of connective tissues. When your plantar fascia becomes inflamed, that seemingly strong band of connective tissue that is responsible for bearing the brunt of your body weight, suddenly causes discomfort. You may develop plantar fasciitis due to:

• Overuse, trauma, or injury
• Being older — it’s most common between 40-60
• Natural foot shape, especially being flat-footed
• Obesity or being overweight

You’re also more likely to suffer from plantar fasciitis pain if you regularly perform certain activities or exercises that place a lot of stress on your heels, such as long-distance running or ballet. Sometimes your job can be the cause, too. If you regularly stand on your feet all day at work, especially on hard surfaces, your risk of developing plantar fasciitis increases.

How do I know if I have plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is a unique pain-causing disorder in that it doesn’t usually bother you while you’re in motion — or it isn’t as severe. Usually, pain and discomfort are worse after taking your first steps after a long period of rest. For instance, plantar fasciitis pain is usually at its peak right after you wake up, but the more you move around, the more your pain dissipates.

Plantar fasciitis is also known for flaring up shortly after exercise, but you shouldn’t be in pain during your workout or sports activity. If any of these plantar fasciitis signs and symptoms sound familiar, it’s time to head to New York City Ankle & Foot to see how the team can help.

What is the treatment for plantar fasciitis?

You have plenty of solutions available at New York City Ankle & Foot for minimizing your current plantar fasciitis pain, as well as preventing future issues. Plantar fasciitis treatment often involves several types of conservative solutions, including:

• Custom supportive orthotic inserts
• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections
• Foot strapping or taping
• Night splints or braces
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Cortisone Injections
  

If these therapies aren’t providing relief, or if your plantar fasciitis continues to worsen, your dedicated podiatrist at New York City Ankle & Foot may talk with you about surgery. Plantar fasciitis surgery, which is minimally invasive, involves releasing your plantar fascia and removing any scar tissue.

To get relief from plantar fasciitis, schedule an evaluation at New York City Ankle & Foot today. You can call the office nearest you, or you can request an appointment online.