Don’t Try to “Walk Off” Your Heel Pain—Receive Effective Plantar Fasciitis Treatment From a Foot & Ankle Specialist in Louisville, KY

A common foot issue, heel pain often results from a condition caused by repetitive stress. One such condition is plantar fasciitis, which occurs when the plantar fascia—a strong band of tissue (ligament) that runs from the heel to the toes—is stretched beyond its normal limits, sometimes to the point of tearing. In addition to stabbing pain near the heel, plantar fasciitis can cause swelling, stiffness, tightness in the Achilles tendon, and difficulty walking. The discomfort may improve after a few steps, but then worsen with vigorous or prolonged activity.

While just about anyone can develop plantar fasciitis, those who are particularly at risk include high-demand athletes, such as long-distance runners, basketball players, and ballet dancers. Additionally, individuals who carry excess body weight or spend a lot of time standing—such as nurses, teachers, chefs, and construction workers—are prone to heel pain as well.

How Is Plantar Fasciitis Diagnosed?

In addition to plantar fasciitis, other issues that can cause heel pain include:

• Stress fractures
• Compressed nerves
• Heel spurs
• Loss of fatty tissue under the heel bone

As part of the diagnostic process, a physician will typically perform a thorough physical examination and medical history review. In many cases, detailed imaging tests are unnecessary to confirm a diagnosis of plantar fasciitis.

How Is Plantar Fasciitis Treated?

Conservative treatment is often sufficient for plantar fasciitis. For instance, many patients benefit from:

• Rest and activity modifications
• Ice pack applications
• Targeted stretches and physical therapy
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• A heel-cushioning orthotic
• Bracing or splinting
• Athletic taping
• Steroid injections

Surgery is usually unnecessary for plantar fasciitis. However, surgical treatment may be considered to address severe heel pain that does not improve after several weeks of conservative therapy. Plantar fasciitis surgery may involve releasing part of the plantar fascia to reduce tension and alleviate swelling. Another option may be gastrocnemius recession, which involves surgically releasing the gastrocnemius tendon to lengthen the muscles at the back of the leg, allowing the heel to shift down into a more natural position.

If you have heel pain, don’t just try to “walk it off.” Instead, see an orthopedic specialist at Louisville Orthopaedic Clinic in Louisville, Kentucky. We offer the latest solutions for plantar fasciitis and other foot and ankle conditions. After we confirm your diagnosis, we can help you get back on your feet.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact us today.