Plantar Fasciitis

An inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the arch of your feet from your heel to your toes, plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of heel and arch pain. Symptoms are normally found effect the arch and the inside heel area.  Patients with plantar fasciitis experience sever pain, especially when rising out of bed in the morning. Other symptoms may include:

• Pain in the morning when getting out of bed
• Pain and stiffness when walking after extended time sitting
• Pain in your heel or arch or tired feet at the end of the day

Other causes of heel and arch pain include arthritis, infection, fractures and sprains, or even certain systemic diseases.  Because of the multiple possible causes you should see your podiatrist for a thorough evaluation if you are experiencing heel or arch pain.

Plantar Fasciitis Cause

Plantar Fasciitis can be caused by long periods of weight bearing or sudden changes in weight bearing or activity. Occupations in which one may have to do a lot of walking on hard surfaces, wearing shoes with little or no arch support or a sudden increase in weight and over activity can also cause this condition. Some doctors refer to it as the "flip-flop disease" because it often results in a heel spur on the heel bone.

Plantar Fasciitis Treatment

Initial treatments for Plantar Fasciitis include stretching of the Achilles tendon, keeping off the effected foot as much as possible, weight loss, arch support and heel lifts.

People who suffer from plantar fasciitis should be sure not to wear open-back shoes, sandals, "flip-flops," or any shoes without raised heels. They should only wear supportive and stable shoes to avoid exacerbating the condition. It is also important to lessen any activities or sports that place pressure on the balls of the feet, as this may increase tension in the plantar fascia.

Custom Orthotics may also provide relief to patients suffering from plantar fasciitis. At Foot Care of Northeast Arkansas, we can have orthotics made that are personalized to the shape of your feet, giving precise control to treat your condition.