Plantar Fasciitis

What is plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is inflamed tissue that runs along the bottom of your feet. The plantar fascia is a fibrous band that connects the bottom of your toes to your heel, providing support, shock absorption, and stability during weight-bearing activities.

Repeated stress on your plantar fascia can lead to inflammation, causing pain, stiffness, and other uncomfortable symptoms that affect your mobility. Mesilla Valley Footcare has onsite digital X-rays and experienced podiatrists to diagnose and effectively treat your condition.

What does plantar fasciitis feel like?

Pain is the most common sign of plantar fasciitis. Most people describe the sensation as:

Sharp heel pain

The pain is often most intense with your first steps in the morning or after periods of rest, causing a sharp, stabbing pain in your heel.

Burning or aching sensation

As plantar fasciitis progresses, you may experience a burning or aching sensation along the bottom of your foot, extending from your heel toward your toes.

Increased pain during activity

Pain may worsen during prolonged periods of standing, walking, or engaging in activities that put stress on your feet.

Stiffness

You may also experience stiffness in your heel or arch, particularly after periods of rest or inactivity.

Can anybody get plantar fasciitis?

Many people are at risk of plantar fasciitis. The most common risk factors are:

• Older age
• Excess weight
• Flat feet or high arches
• Occupations that require prolonged standing
• Inadequate footwear
• Starting a new or intense workout routine
• Rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, and other medical conditions

Understanding your risk factors can help you take preventive measures that reduce your risk of developing plantar fasciitis.

How can I relieve plantar fasciitis pain at home?

To relieve plantar fasciitis pain at home, you can:

• Stretch your calf muscles to relieve plantar fascia tension
• Apply ice for 15-20 minutes
• Use supportive footwear to minimize foot stress
• Avoid walking barefoot
• Rest and elevate your feet
• Take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

Dr. Cadena and Dr. Miranda can recommend exercises to strengthen the muscles in your feet and calves to reduce plantar fasciitis pain.

What are the most effective treatments for plantar fasciitis?

Mesilla Valley Footcare offers many effective treatments for plantar fasciitis, including:

• Physical therapy
• Custom-made orthotics
• Corticosteroid injections
• Prescription medications
• Night splints

Dr. Cadena and Dr. Miranda may recommend surgery to detach your fascia in severe cases.

Call Mesilla Valley Footcare today or use the online booking tool to schedule a plantar fasciitis consultation.