Plantar Fasciitis

Does plantar fasciitis only affect athletes?

No. Plantar fasciitis is most common in athletes and runners but also affects non-athletes. 

Plantar fasciitis occurs when your plantar fascia –– a band of tissue that runs from your heel to your toes –– becomes irritated or inflamed due to repetitive movements or general wear-and-tear. Without treatment, the condition worsens, affecting your mobility and quality of life.

What are the symptoms of plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis symptoms include:

• Heel pain
• Stiffness
• Swelling near the heel
• A tight Achilles tendon

Plantar fasciitis pain occurs throughout the day, but it’s most common in the mornings and after standing or exercise.

Who is at risk of developing plantar fasciitis?

Several things can increase your risk of plantar fasciitis, including:

• Being overweight
• Walking or standing barefoot at home
• Exercising without stretching or warming up
• Working on hard surfaces (like concrete)
• Being on your feet all day

Structural abnormalities can also increase your risk. For example, you’re more likely to develop plantar fasciitis with flat feet or high arches.

How does a podiatrist diagnose plantar fasciitis?

Your Rogers Foot & Ankle Institute provider reviews your medical records, asks about your symptoms, and examines your heel and the bottom of your foot. They gently press on your heel and Achilles tendon to check for sensitive areas and complete a gait analysis to see how you walk. 

If your provider suspects an underlying problem, like heel spurs or a fracture, they order X-rays or a CT scan to get a closer look at the bones and joints in your foot.

Let your provider know if your pain worsens during certain activities or times of the day. Tell them where the pain occurs and if it extends into other areas, like your calves.

How does a foot and ankle specialist treat plantar fasciitis?

The Rogers Foot & Ankle Institute team treats plantar fasciitis using a conservative and evidence-based approach. They might suggest:

• Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication
• Ice and rest
• Wearing supportive shoes
• Custom orthotics or shoe inserts
• Immobilization with a walking boot
• Massaging and stretching
• Corticosteroid injections
• Extracorporeal pulse activation technology (EPAT)

Most cases of plantar fasciitis respond to these noninvasive treatments, but if your symptoms continue or worsen, the team might recommend surgery. 

Call the nearest Rogers Foot & Ankle Institute office today to schedule a plantar fasciitis appointment, or book your visit online.