Plantar fasciitis is a foot condition affecting more than two million Americans. The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons says that the supportive plantar fascia becomes inflamed and painful, impacting mobility. At Blue Ridge Foot Centers in Asheville, NC, your renowned podiatrist is Dr. Daniel Waldman, can diagnose and treat plantar fasciitis, returning you, and your feet, to normal.
What is plantar fasciitis?
Irritation and inflammation of the plantar fascia, plantar fasciitis happens when the connective tissue between the heel and toes is repeatedly overstretched due to:
- Obesity
- Overuse (as with running or standing on your feet too long)
- High arches
- New athletic activity
- Tight calf muscles
- The aging process
Heel pain is a presenting symptom, and some patients have small calcified projections off the front of their heel bones. These heel spurs add to the discomfort associated with plantar fasciitis. Typically, plantar fasciitis symptoms are worse in the morning and abate during the day.
Diagnosing and treating plantar fasciitis
Your podiatrist at Blue Ridge Foot Centers in Asheville, NC, will inspect your painful feet, watch you walk, and do X-rays or other types of digital imaging if warranted. Many people with plantar fasciitis twist their feet to the midline (overpronation). This extra pressure on the plantar fascia leads to soreness, swelling, and difficulty walking and standing.
Dr. Waldman will fine-tune your treatment to suit your individual symptoms and lifestyle. Elements of your care plan may include:
- Rest, ice, and elevation of the affected foot
- Arch supports (customized shoe orthotics)
- Changes in athletic training
- Motrin to relieve pain and inflammation
- Cortisone injections
- Maintaining a recommended body weight
- Wearing shoes with thick soles (no flip flops or going barefoot)
- Massage and other kinds of physical therapy
Some patients do not respond well to conservative treatments. A surgery, such as plantar fascia release, can relieve pain and stiffness. Fortunately, Dr. Waldman is board-certified in foot and ankle surgery. A nationally and internationally known lecturer, Dr. Waldman is an expert in minimal incision surgical techniques.
Feel better now!
At Blue Ridge Foot Centers in Asheville, NC, Dr. Daniel Waldman, and his team relieve stubborn plantar fasciitis. Don't wait. Let this expert podiatrist help you stay active. Phone us for an appointment: (828) 254-5371. Or, you may contact us through our website: blueridgefoot.com.