Published: November 27, 2019

Plantar Fasciitis

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is a persistent pain located on the bottom of the heel, and is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a fibrous tendon-like structure that extends the entire length of the bottom of the foot. The plantar fascia can become irritated, inflamed and may even get small tears, causing a stabbing pain.

Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis

  • Pain is most noticeable the first few steps in the morning
  • The pain can feel like a sharp, stabbing pain in the heel
  • The pain subsides in 10-15 minutes, but can happen again after times of rest or being on your feet for too long

Causes

  • Plantar fasciitis is more common in active people who have a high-arch or rigid type flat foot
  • While walking, the plantar fascia experiences continuous stress and excessive pulling which results in inflammation and pain
  • This is not typically the result of a “direct” injury

Types of Treatment

Your physician will perform a complete medical history and physical. X-rays are sometimes taken to rule out other causes of heel pain. Often, a small bone spur is found to be the cause of the pain.

Short Term

  • Stretching, foot wraps
  • Rest and exercise modification
  • Anti-inflammatory medication
  • Ice
  • Supportive insoles
  • Steroid injections- this helps to resolve the inflammation/pain and does not just “cover-up” the pain. They are not used as a stand-alone therapy

Long Term

  • Physical therapy
  • Custom made orthotics
  • Night splints
  • Surgery

Surgery

  • Only a small percentage of people require surgery
  • It is not necessary to remove the bone spur
  • Partial plantar fasciotomy – cutting/releasing a portion of the plantar fascia
  • There is also a minimally invasive procedure using a Topaz wand to perform micro-debridement and micro-lengthening of the plantar fascia