Plantar Fasciitis And Heel Spurs Specialist

What is plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis causes stabbing pain in your heel because of inflammation in the thick band of connective tissue that extends from your heel to your toes.

The pain of plantar fasciitis is typically at its worst first thing in the morning when you take your first steps or after an extended period of rest. The heel pain subsides after you get moving and the fascia in your feet loosens up.

What causes plantar fasciitis?

Your plantar fascia absorbs the shock of every step you take. Fascia that's under too much stress develops micro tears, which trigger inflammation.

For example, plantar fasciitis is a common complaint among runners, dancers, and people who are overweight. If you wear shoes with inadequate support, you also increase your risk of developing this painful condition.

Your foot mechanics and alignment can also contribute to inflammation in your fascia. If you have flat feet, a high arch, or if you over or under pronate — which is when your foot rolls too far inward or outward when you take a step — the distribution of weight when you step is abnormal and can heap extra stress on the fascia.

What is a heel spur?

A heel spur is a bony growth that develops on either the bottom or back of your heel. It’s a common complication of plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis.

Heel spurs are painful and can negatively affect your mobility by causing you to limp or adjust your gait, or by hurting you so badly that you don’t want to walk at all.

How are plantar fasciitis and heel spurs treated?

If you have plantar fasciitis or heel spurs, your podiatrist at Rocky Mountain Foot and Ankle Center will help you devise a treatment plan that accommodates your lifestyle. In most cases, your doctor will begin with conservative treatments like rest, ice, and stretching. He’ll also provide advice on how to effectively warm up and cool down before exercise to reduce your symptoms.

You may also benefit from using custom-made orthotics that provide additional support to your feet and ankles and reduce the pressure on your heels and foot arch. Your podiatrist may also suggest wearing night splints to hold your plantar fascia and Achilles tendon in a lengthened position overnight. This gentle stretch in your foot and calf can reduce inflammation.

Physical therapy is another treatment for plantar fasciitis and heel spurs. You’ll learn stretches and exercises that keep your ankles and feet stable. In rare circumstances, your podiatrist may suggest more invasive procedures like injections, extracorporeal shockwave therapy, or procedures to remove scar tissue or release the fascia.

In rare circumstances, your doctor may need to remove the heel spur surgically.

If you wake up with heel pain, call or schedule an appointment online today for expert diagnosis and podiatry treatments.