Plantar Fasciitis

Expert podiatrist Everett J. Mason III, DPM, and his team offer an assortment of treatments for plantar fasciitis at Crossroads Podiatry. If you are feeling foot pain and think you might have plantar fasciitis, visit the Newnan, Georgia, office to learn more about the symptoms, the possible causes, and solutions. To schedule an appointment, call the office or reach out online. 

What is plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain, stemming from inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of the foot, connecting the heel bone to the toes. It often causes a sharp, stabbing pain in the heel, most noticeable first thing in the morning as you take your first steps of the day. The pain typically ebbs the more you move around but can return after a period of inactivity.

The people most likely to suffer from plantar fasciitis are runners, those who are overweight, and those who wear shoes with inadequate arch support.

How to know if you have plantar fasciitis?

The most noticeable symptom is the sharp pain at the bottom of your foot, near your heel. This pain usually diminishes the more you walk around, exercise can actually exacerbate it. Also, repetitive stretching may lead to the tearing of your plantar fascia causing increased irritation and inflammation.

If left untreated, you could experience chronic heel pain. This will likely affect how you walk and lead to other foot, knee, hip, and back issues.

How is plantar fasciitis diagnosed?

During your appointment, Dr. Mason will conduct a physical examination and will check for any areas of tenderness in your foot. A diagnosis can often be made from this examination alone, but in some cases, Dr. Mason may choose to order an X-ray or MRI to ensure another issue isn’t causing your pain.

What is the treatment for plantar fasciitis?

A combination of rest, icing of the painful area, and gentle stretching can lead to recovery within several months. Dr. Mason can also prescribe medication for the pain and inflammation and may also recommend physical therapy, night splints, and orthotics.

If the issue is more severe, Dr. Mason might suggest injections of steroid medication for pain relief, shock wave therapy to stimulate healing, a minimally invasive procedure to remove scar tissue from the plantar fasciitis, or surgery to detach the plantar fascia from the heel bone.

If you think you may have plantar fasciitis, call to schedule an appointment with Dr. Mason today. You can also reach out online.