Plantar fasciitis is when the band of tissue that supports the arch of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, becomes inflamed. This tissue connects your toes to your heel bone and helps absorb the pressure you put on your feet while standing, walking, or running. When there’s too much stress or strain, it can get injured or torn, leading to pain and swelling.
People with plantar fasciitis often feel pain in their foot and heel, especially in the morning or after not moving for a while. This is one of the most common foot problems, affecting nearly 10% of adults at some point.
Usually, plantar fasciitis gets better over time with some simple lifestyle changes, but treatment can also help ease the symptoms. Knowing the signs can help you decide when it’s time to see a healthcare provider. Key symptoms include sharp heel pain, especially after intense activity or long periods of resting.
While anyone can develop plantar fasciitis, risk factors like intense activity, improper footwear, or obesity can increase the chances. If you think you might have it, it’s wise to visit a healthcare provider for tests. They’ll review your medical history, examine your foot for redness, swelling, or tenderness, and check your foot’s range of motion. Sometimes diagnostic tests are needed to be sure it’s plantar fasciitis and not something else.
If you’re diagnosed, your provider will help set up a treatment plan to reduce pain and keep your foot functioning well. There’s no outright cure, but most people find that their symptoms improve within a year of treatment.
Your treatment plan could include rest, lifestyle changes, exercise, and medication. It’s important to rest your foot and stay away from activities that make the pain worse, like running or standing long on hard surfaces. Applying ice can help reduce swelling and discomfort. You can use an ice pack or a frozen water bottle wrapped in a towel on your foot for about 15 to 20 minutes a few times a day.
Stretching and strengthening exercises can also help. Stretching increases flexibility and mobility, with exercises like calf stretches and toe curls being particularly useful. Strengthening exercises improve the muscles in your foot and ankle to better handle daily stress.
Orthotics can provide additional support and cushioning. These are specially designed shoe inserts that support the arch and heel. You can buy them over-the-counter or get custom-made ones through your provider.
Your healthcare provider might suggest short-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce inflammation and pain. If NSAIDs aren’t effective, an injection of steroids might be considered. If other treatments don’t work, a cast or walking boot might help limit movement and reduce strain on the plantar fascia.
Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) is another option, particularly if symptoms persist despite other treatments. It involves sending sound waves to the painful area to encourage healing and relieve pain.
In some cases, when symptoms last more than a year without relief, surgery might be an option. Even after treatment, some people experience flare-ups. It’s beneficial to learn strategies to manage and prevent these episodes.
Though plantar fasciitis doesn’t directly cause other conditions, it is sometimes seen in people with related foot problems. Living with plantar fasciitis can be challenging, but with the right treatment and lifestyle adjustments, you can manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Finding the right approach may take some time, but working closely with your healthcare provider can guide you towards effective treatment options. With patience and care, you can find relief and get back to enjoying your everyday activities without pain.
