The most common form of heel pain is plantar fasciitis. This is an inflammatory condition of the tissue (the plantar fascia) that connects the heel bone with the toes. This tissue can become inflamed, torn, and painful from overuse and other factors, such as the type of shoes you wear and your foot structure. Your podiatrist can use a variety of treatment modalities to repair the plantar fascia and reduce pain and inflammation, including anti-inflammatory drugs, night splints, heel pads and cups, custom orthotics, physical therapy, steroid injections, casts, and even shockwave therapy—which can boost the body’s natural healing process. If you have heel pain, visit a podiatrist who can diagnose and treat your condition properly. 

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Cory Brown, DPM  from Cory Brown, DPM. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Lewiston, ID . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.