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If one step causes shooting pain through your heel, especially when you step out of bed first thing in the morning, you may have plantar fasciitis (heel pain). You may also experience this heel pain when you standup after sitting for an extended period of time. Many people suffer from heel pain, but it generally does not last more than a short period of time. When the pain persists, it may be necessary to visit your South Texas podiatrist for further examination. Ignoring your chronic heel pain may lead to more lasting problems. Your podiatrist can help you find the best treatment plan for relieving your pain and getting you back to your healthy, active lifestyle. Plantar Fasciitis Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the band of tissue (the fascia) that extends from your heel to your toes. When the fascia is overstretched or overused, the inflamed fascia can be painful and make walking more difficult. One of the most common causes of plantar fasciitis is a faulty foot structure. People who have problems with their arches, such as those who have flat feet or high arched feet, are more prone to developing plantar fasciitis. If you have plantar fasciitis, you may describe the pain as worse when you get up in the morning or after sitting for extended periods of time. After a few minutes of walking your pain may decrease because the walking stretches your fascia, reducing pressure. Common symptoms of plantar fasciitis include: * Bottom of the heel pain
* Pain that usually worsens upon rising
* Pain that increases over a period of months If you wear non-supportive footwear on hard, flat surfaces abnormal strain may be put on your plantar fascia which can also lead to your heel pain. This is mostly seen when someone's job requires them to stand for long periods of time, as well as in obesity. Heel Spur Syndrome An intense and sharp pain at the bottom of the heel may also be called a heel spur, which is the growth of extra bone on the heel bone. Researchers believe that a heel spur will form when the connective tissue that extends from the heel bone to the base of the toes pulls excessively on your heel. The "spur" is actually a shelf of bone or calcification in the plantar fascia and is not actually the cause of the pain. X-rays show the area in two dimensions but three dimensional imaging such as diagnostic ultrasound demonstrate the fact that the area of calcification is part of the plantar fascia. Sonography or diagnostic ultrasound is the preferred manner to view the fascia. Those who have flat feet are at a higher risk of developing plantar fasciitis. Treatment and Prevention To properly treat heel pain, you must absorb shock, provide cushioning and elevate your heel in order to transfer the pressure off of your heel. Treatment may include various non-surgical techniques such as: * Stretching exercises
* Avoid going barefoot
* Ice
* Limit activities
* Shoe modifications
* Medications Advanced techniques to treat plantar fasciitis include ESWT, the Topaz procedure, MLS laser therapy, platelet rich plasma (PRP) and prescription foot orthotics. If you continue to experience pain in your heel after several weeks, you should visit your podiatrist for proper diagnosis and treatment options. Your San Antonio podiatrist will know the best procedures and forms of treatment that would be best to treat your heel pain.
Dr. Ed Davis is a leading podiatrist in San Antonio, TX. Providing over 25 years of experience and offering an array of foot and ankle care, including heel pain and South Texas bunion treatment, Dr. Davis is qualified to handle any podiatric need.
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