Understanding Plantar Fasciitis: Causes and Treatment

Unpacking Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is characterized by the inflammation and irritation of a band of tissue known as the plantar fascia, which extends from the heel to the toes along the bottom of the foot. This condition can lead to persistent foot and heel discomfort. In some cases, it is associated with a condition known as heel spur syndrome. At City Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine, our orthopedic experts possess extensive experience in diagnosing and treating various forms of heel pain, including plantar fasciitis.

Root Causes of Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia tissue becomes irritated and inflamed. Common triggers for this inflammation include:

• Wearing shoes with worn-out soles
• High arches in the feet
• Flat feet (low or absent arches)
• Tight Achilles tendon
• Frequent use of high-heeled shoes

Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis

Consult our orthopedic specialists if you experience any of the following signs and symptoms associated with plantar fasciitis:

• Heel pain
• Pain in the foot arch
• Increased foot pain when walking or standing
• Foot pain or stiffness upon waking in the morning
• Foot pain or stiffness when transitioning from sitting to standing, especially after prolonged sitting

Plantar fasciitis pain tends to worsen gradually over time and often subsides temporarily after walking during the day, only to return the next morning.

Diagnosing Plantar Fasciitis

At City Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine, we boast years of experience diagnosing and treating plantar fasciitis and other foot and ankle orthopedic conditions. During your visit to one of our foot and ankle specialists, we will assess your foot, inquire about your symptoms, pinpoint the location of your foot pain, and consider your medical history. In many cases, we can diagnose plantar fasciitis based on a physical examination and your description of your pain. However, to rule out other potential conditions, such as heel fractures, we may recommend imaging tests to obtain detailed images of your foot’s interior. Our commonly used imaging tests include:

• X-rays
• MRI scans
• CT scans

Treatment for Plantar Fasciitis

City Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine prioritizes non-surgical treatment options for plantar fasciitis whenever possible. Conservative treatments may encompass:

• Rest
• Ice
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Physical therapy
• Appropriate footwear
• Cortisone injections

In cases where conservative methods fail to alleviate foot pain, our surgeons may recommend plantar fasciitis surgery as a last resort. Although rarely necessary, this surgical option can provide relief when other treatments prove ineffective.