What You Need to Know About Plantar Fasciitis

Your feet can handle quite a bit of stress, but going over the limit can cause extreme discomfort. Heel pain is one sign that you have been overdoing it.

Plantar fasciitis is a problem that can arise after too much running or jumping. The plantar fascia is a thick band of connective tissue that travels across the bottom of your foot between your toes and your heel bone. The plantar fascia supports your foot's natural arch stretching and tightening whenever your foot bears weight.

Your plantar fascia acts like a shock-absorbing bowstring, and if tension on that bowstring becomes too great, it can create small tears in the fascia. Repetitive stretching and tearing can cause the fascia to become irritated or inflamed.

Treatment methods for plantar fasciitis include anti-inflammatory medications, cortisone injections, orthotics, physical therapy to stretch the plantar fascia, or wearing a splint at night. In rare cases, surgery may be required to detach the plantar fascia from the heel bone if nonsurgical treatments have not been effective. 

If you are experiencing foot pain, call (772) 569-2330 to consult with one of our foot and ankle experts at Vero Orthopaedics or schedule an appointment online.