Do you wake up to a stabbing pain in your heel or experience discomfort after long periods of standing or walking? You might be among the many individuals dealing with a common foot ailment known as plantar fasciitis. This condition can significantly impact your daily life, but with the right treatment, relief is possible.
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is characterized by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, connecting the heel bone to the toes. It's a leading cause of heel pain and can manifest as a sharp, stabbing sensation near the heel or along the arch of the foot.
Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis:
- Heel pain (often most intense in the morning or after long periods of rest)
- Pain that worsens after prolonged standing or activity
- Tenderness or inflammation along the bottom of the foot
- Difficulty flexing the foot upward
Causes of Plantar Fasciitis:
Several factors contribute to the development of plantar fasciitis:
- Overuse or Strain: Activities that put repetitive stress on the feet, such as running, dancing, or standing for extended periods, can strain the plantar fascia.
- Improper Footwear: Wearing shoes with inadequate support or incorrect arch support can exacerbate the condition.
- Foot Structure: Flat feet, high arches, or abnormal walking patterns can increase the risk of plantar fasciitis.
Treatment Options for Plantar Fasciitis:
Effective management of plantar fasciitis involves a multifaceted approach tailored to the individual's needs. At Lexington Podiatry, we offer various treatments to alleviate heel pain and promote healing:
- Custom Orthotics: Personalized shoe inserts provide support and correct alignment, reducing strain on the plantar fascia.
- MLS IV Laser Therapy: This advanced treatment uses dual wavelengths of light to reduce inflammation and stimulate tissue repair, promoting faster healing.
- Immobilization (if severe): In severe cases, immobilization through the use of a walking boot or splint may be recommended to rest the affected foot and reduce inflammation.
- Injections: Corticosteroid injections can offer temporary relief by reducing inflammation and alleviating pain.
- Oral Anti-Inflammatory Medications: Medications like ibuprofen or naproxen may be prescribed to manage pain and inflammation.
- Modern Podiatrist Pain Relievers: Innovative products like SOOTHE or RECOVER, available through our practice (or online at https://www.modernpodiatrist.com), provide topical pain relief targeted at reducing discomfort associated with plantar fasciitis.
At Lexington Podiatry, our goal is to help you find lasting relief from heel pain. Don't let plantar fasciitis disrupt your life. Schedule an appointment with our experienced team today to receive personalized care and effective treatment options tailored to your needs.
Take the first step towards a pain-free life and reclaim your mobility. Contact Lexington Podiatry (859-241-1441) to start your journey towards healing and comfort.