About Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is inflammation of the plantar fascia. The Plantar Fascia is a ligament structure that supports the longitudinal arch of the foot. It is a tough, fibrous band of connective tissue that runs from the heel bone to the ball of the foot.
Symptoms of plantar fasciitis may come on gradually or suddenly. Symptoms include the following:
• Starts as dull, intermittent pain in heel or arch, progressing to a sharp, persistent pain
• A sharp, piercing pain and/or inflammation through heel and foot that usually occurs in the morning or after resting and gradually disappears with walking
• Tightness in calf muscles
• Pain when standing on tiptoe
Plantar fasciitis is usually caused by repetitive strain. The main risk factor that increases your chance of getting plantar fasciitis is physical activity that stresses the plantar fascia. Runners or other athletes who play sports that require extensive running and jumping commonly suffer from this condition.
How Dr. Le Cara Can Help
Dr. Le Cara will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and then he will examine your foot.
Tests may include an x-ray or bone scan of the foot to help rule out stress fractures or bone spurs. He may then recommend one or more of the following:
• Orthoses: These inserts for your shoes mechanically correct the foot as well as support the plantar fascia, therefore reducing the discomfort. Orthoses can be custom made for your foot. They may be soft, flexible, semi-rigid, or rigid.
• Night splint: The splint maintains a gentle, constant stretch across the plantar fascia.
• Physiotherapy: Engaging in certain stretching exercises on a regular basis can lengthen the Achilles tendon. Specific exercises can strengthen the supporting muscles of the arch and decrease the lengthening of the plantar fascia.
• In some cases, deep tissue stripping of the plantar ligament is very beneficial for providing long-lasting relief.