We use our feet every day, so when they start to hurt, it's important to make sure it's not a sign of something more serious. Plantar fasciitis is one such condition that causes pain and discomfort in the heel and arch of your foot. It’s an inflammation of the thick band of tissue connecting your heel bone to your toes (the plantar fascia), and it’s usually caused by overuse or too much pressure on the arch of your foot. This condition can hinder your daily life, so it's best to get evaluated as soon as possible. That's why we've outlined five signs that you might have plantar fasciitis -- and how we can help.
1. Pain in Your Heel or Arch
If you’re experiencing pain in your heel or arch that’s particularly sharp or severe when you first get out of bed, then it may be a sign of plantar fasciitis. This feeling usually subsides as the day goes on and you keep moving, but it sometimes persists or worsens throughout the day.
2. Swelling
Swelling around your heel can be a sign that you’re developing plantar fasciitis. It usually goes away after a few minutes of movement, but if it doesn’t, then make sure to get evaluated by a doctor.
3. Difficulty Flexing Your Foot
If you’re having difficulty flexing or curling your toes, then it could be due to plantar fasciitis. This is usually because the inflammation of the plantar fascia has made the tissue stiff and difficult to move.
4. Pain When Pressure is Applied
If you have plantar fasciitis, you'll likely experience a sharp pain in your heel when you first get out of bed in the morning. You may also feel pain after periods of rest or activity involving your feet, such as running or walking. The pain may become worse with more weight placed on your feet, such as when you’re standing for long periods of time. If your foot hurts when pressure is applied to it, then that’s another sign of plantar fasciitis..
5. Stiffness in Your Heel
If your heel feels stiff and tender, then that could mean you have plantar fasciitis. This usually happens when the inflammation of the fascia has caused the tissue to become tighter, making it more prone to pain and stiffness.
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, then you should get evaluated by a doctor as soon as possible. They can perform an exam and order any tests needed to diagnose plantar fasciitis and provide the appropriate treatments.
How GPOA Can Help
Fortunately, there are ways to manage and treat the symptoms of plantar fasciitis. At GPOA, our team of experienced orthopedic specialists will create a customized treatment plan to address your individual needs. This could include:
- Stretching and strengthening exercises - We’ll design a personalized program of exercises that can help alleviate pain and strengthen the structures around your foot.
- Bracing and orthotic devices - Our team can fabricate custom orthotics to provide arch support and cushioning for your feet, reducing painful symptoms and helping you to move more comfortably
- Physical therapy - Our physical therapists can provide manual therapy and therapeutic exercise to reduce pain, improve mobility, and restore function.
- Ultrasound Therapy - We offer ultrasound therapy as a non-invasive way to reduce inflammation and pain.
- Foot & Ankle Surgery - In some cases, surgery may be necessary for more severe cases of plantar fasciitis. We specialize in minimally invasive techniques that can help minimize recovery time and get you back on your feet as soon as possible. Foot and ankle surgery includes a variety of treatment modalities, both conservative and surgical, utilized to treat numerous conditions. Some of these conditions include plantar fasciitis, foot & ankle arthritis, ankle instability, and Achilles tendonitis.
Our goal is to provide you with the best possible care so that you can return to your daily activities as soon as possible. If you’re experiencing any of the signs of plantar fasciitis, then don’t hesitate to contact us for an evaluation today.
At GPOA we understand that no two patients are the same, so we strive to provide personalized care for each and every patient. Give us a call today to find out how we can help you manage your plantar fasciitis and get back to living your life pain-free.
With the help of Greater Pittsburgh Orthopaedic Associates, you'll be on your way to reducing your pain and improving your quality of life in no time. Schedule your first appointment with us online today and take one step closer to a healthier, pain-free future.
