Few conditions cause heel and foot pain as frequently as plantar fasciitis. In fact, an estimated one in 10 people will experience it at some point.

When you have this chronic condition, the thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot is inflamed, leading to stabbing pain that may flare up first thing in the morning and after periods of sitting, standing, or exercising. 

The expert medical team at Johnson Medical Center in Venice, Florida, effectively diagnoses and treats causes of foot pain, including plantar fasciitis. In this blog post, we explore ways to manage this common and painful condition, including how we can help.

Causes behind plantar fasciitis pain

While no one knows the precise cause of plantar fasciitis, most anyone can develop it if enough tension and stress happens within your feet. There may be a genetic link, so if others in your family have had it, you may as well. It’s also possible to tear or overstretch the band of tissue in your feet, which can cause and worsen irritation. 

You may be especially prone to plantar fasciitis if you:

• Are between ages 40 and 60
• Carry excess weight
• Engage in certain exercises, such as aerobics, ballet, or distance running
• Have high arches or an unusual walking pattern
• Have a job that requires standing, such as factory work, hairstyling, or teaching

Managing plantar fasciitis

If plantar fasciitis symptoms go unmanaged, they can worsen and lead to chronic foot pain that doesn’t often let up. If you change how you walk because of your symptoms, you could end up with poor alignment and additional pain in your hips and back. 

Our medical team conducts thorough exams to determine the cause of your foot pain. If your provider determines that you have plantar fasciitis, they’ll treat the immediate pain and inflammation and recommend a personalized treatment plan to help keep your symptoms at bay long term.

Your plantar fasciitis treatment plan may include:

• Custom orthotics
• Laser therapy
• Night splints
• Oral anti-inflammatory pain relievers
• Steroid injections
• Ultrasound tissue repair
• Physical therapy
• Surgery, for severe cases

We may also suggest lifestyle changes and home remedies for plantar fasciitis, such as better managing your weight, ice therapy, arch stretches, and switching to lower impact physical activities, such as biking or swimming. Wearing quality, supportive shoes that fit well may also help minimize your symptoms.

To learn more about plantar fasciitis or get started with the care you need, call our office or request an appointment online today.