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If one step causes a shooting pain to go through your heel, especially when you wake up in the morning to get out of bed, you may have plantar fasciitis. Occurring also when you stand after sitting for an extended period of time, heel pain is not something to be ignored. Many people suffer from heel pain, but it does not often last more than a short period of time. When the pain persists, it may be necessary to visit your Carmel podiatrist for further examination. Ignoring heel pain can cause even worse pain to develop and last longer than the initial pain. Keep one foot forward when it comes to protecting your feet from unnecessary aches and pains. What is Plantar Fasciitis? Located on the bottom of the foot, the plantar fascia is a dense band of tissue that covers the bones. This band of tissue acts like a bowstring on a bow. When you are off of your feet, your foot is not tight and when you step down it becomes tight. Over time a person can develop a strain or inflammation of the fascia into the heel bone. This can become a chronic and repetitive condition because no one really rests their feet enough to heal and get better. Plantar fasciitis is typically described as a shooting pain in the heel, which feels the worst first thing in the morning. It also worsens when you stand up after sitting down for a prolonged period of time. Swelling in the heel can also be present in plantar fasciitis and, although it is extremely painful after rest, plantar fasciitis usually eases during the day. Plantar fasciitis may reappear after exercise or long periods on your feet. A number of factors that can lead to plantar fasciitis include:
• Obesity or sudden weight gain
• Too much pressure on the heels
• Foot abnormalities
• Diabetes and arthritis
• Wearing the wrong shoes
Treatment and Prevention To properly treat heel pain, you must absorb shock, provide cushioning and elevate the heel to transfer pressure. Your podiatrist may recommend an orthotic designed with materials that will absorb shock and shear forces. An orthotic with medial posting and good arch support can help control the pronation and prevent the inflammation of the plantar fascia. Footwear selection is a very important aspect to consider when treating heel pain. Shoes with a firm heel counter, good arch support, and appropriate heel height are the ideal choice for protection of your feet. Plantar fasciitis needs treatment to prevent it from becoming worse, or from becoming a persistent pain. If untreated, plantar fasciitis can keep you from getting much-needed exercise and it can also lead to back, knee and hip problems, and other foot conditions because it affects the way that you walk. If pain persists, a trip to your podiatrist is highly recommended to prevent further damage and to help bring your foot back to proper health. Symptoms of plantar fasciitis are classic and that searing heel pain is an unmistakable warning sign. Consult your podiatrist if you exhibit any heel pain that doesn't go away after a short period of time.
Drs. Jeffrey Agricola and Anthony Miller of Prestige Podiatry are experienced podiatrists in Indianapolis, Greenwood and Indianapolis. Offering a full array of treatments, including heel pain and bunions in Greenwood, Indiana patients turn to Prestige Podiatry for all of their foot and ankle problems
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