The following describes the symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of plantar fasciitis. For specific information regarding your health and treatment options, please contact your Hurley physician or medical professional.

What is plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the irritation and inflammation of the plantar fascia, the band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes and supports the arch of the foot. It is a common cause of pain in the heel and/or bottom of the foot. While it affects all age groups, it is more often seen in middle-aged adults, especially runners.

What causes plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is caused by strain or injury to the plantar fascia, the ligament on the bottom of your foot. Factors that contribute to plantar fasciitis include flat feet, high arches, rapid weight gain, obesity, wearing shoes with poor support, and excessive standing and running.

What are the symptoms of plantar fasciitis?

Common symptoms of plantar fasciitis include:

• Tenderness or pain in the heel or bottom of the foot
• Increased pain in the morning, often improving throughout the day
• Increased pain following prolonged standing or walking

How is plantar fasciitis diagnosed?

Your Hurley physician will conduct a complete physical exam and may order x-rays or MRIs to rule out other causes for the pain in your foot.

How is plantar fasciitis treated?

Early treatment recommendations for plantar fasciitis include resting the affected foot, heel stretching exercises, and placing ice packs on your heels. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin or ibuprofen, may be used for pain relief. It is important to wear shoes that provide ample support and to avoid high heels. Your physician may also recommend other treatment options such as night splints, orthotic shoe inserts, cortisone injections, physical therapy, or extracorporeal shock wave therapy (energy pulses to the affected area).

Surgery is very rarely necessary to correct plantar fasciitis.