What Is the Solution for Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot problem that leads to discomfort and pain in the heel and lower foot. There are different ways to manage the signs of this foot condition, so read on to find the solution that works for you.

Biomechanics studies how living things move, and the foot and ankle are exciting areas to study. The lower leg and foot are intricately connected through the joints, muscles, tendons, and ligaments, which are vital for keeping them stable when standing up. The combination of elements needed to do something as basic as maintaining balance, much less walking, is impressive, and it’s down to that unique connection in the lower leg, ankle, and feet.

Your plantar fascia is an integral part of this stability. It is the primary ligament in your heel, and problems that affect it can change the way you walk or compromise your ability to do so if not treated. The condition is known as plantar fasciitis; if you have it, we have options available to help you get through it. Let’s learn more about this foot problem, its causes and signs, and how we can help.

If you live in the Fort Worth or Weatherford, Texas, area and you’re dealing with pain or discomfort from plantar fasciitis, Drs. Glen Beede and Gregory Jaryga and their staff at Trinity Foot & Ankle Specialists are here to help.

Understanding plantar fasciitis

The plantar fascia is the dense weblike ligament connecting the bottom of the foot from the heel to the front. It serves as a shock absorber and support for the arch. Inflammation of the ligament leads to the discomfort associated with plantar fasciitis, which is generally located at the bottom of the heel or the midfoot. It usually affects one of your feet, though it can happen in both.

Causes and symptoms

The inflammation in this ligament results from stress that can happen due to several factors, such as excessive exercising (especially walking or running), quickly gaining weight, standing for long periods of time, or recent changes in physical activity. Other lower leg and foot problems, like flat feet, high arches, tight calf muscles, or a tight Achilles tendon, can also lead to plantar fasciitis.

The pain you experience from this foot problem can be sharp, dull, more severe when you first stand in the morning, worsen as you put weight on them for long periods, and can also come with swelling and stiffness.

Options for management

We can manage the pain and inflammation of plantar fasciitis in several ways:

Physical therapy

A series of stretching and strengthening regimens and therapies, along with massages to reduce tension in the ligaments, can help ease symptoms.

Medications

Reducing tissue inflammation is important; nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications and corticosteroid injections can help with that.

Arch and foot support

Custom orthotics help to reduce stress on the foot and ankle and offer support, while devices like night splints and walking boots can improve stability.

Surgery

If all other methods fail to get results or the injury is too severe, surgery can be done to reduce pressure in the ligaments.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot problem that needs to be treated, so make an appointment with Drs. Beede, Jaryga, and the team at Trinity Foot & Ankle Specialists today to get it taken care of.