Don’t Let Foot Pain Slow You Down

Intense pain at the bottom of the heel, especially after long periods of rest or exercise, could be a sign of plantar fasciitis. At Michfoot Surgeons, Randy Leff, DPM, and other skilled podiatric care providers provide both nonsurgical and surgical treatments for plantar fasciitis.

Michfoot Surgeons Plantaar Fasciitis

The plantar fascia is a strong, thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot and connects the heel bone to your toes. Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of this tissue. It causes pain and stiffness in the sole of your foot near the heel.

Stabbing heel pain is the telltale sign of plantar fasciitis. Sometimes the pain may be closer to the midfoot area, but it is always at the bottom. Plantar fasciitis usually affects one foot at a time, but you can have it in both feet.

Pain from plantar fasciitis usually develops gradually. The pain is often worse with your first few steps in the morning or after prolonged exercise. Most people with plantar fasciitis experience pain after they stop an activity rather than during it.

Many people with plantar fasciitis also develop heel spurs, which are bony protrusions on the heel bone. A heel spur doesn’t always cause pain. Larger heel spurs may be visible on an X-ray.

The bowstring-shaped plantar fascia supports the arch of your foot and absorbs shock when you walk or run. Too much tension or stress can cause small tears in the plantar fascia. Repeated stretching continues to irritate and inflame the tissue.

Certain factors may increase your risk of getting plantar fasciitis, including:

  • Being between the ages of 40–60
  • Being overweight or obese
  • Engaging in activities that put a lot of stress on the heel, like distance running
  • Having abnormal foot mechanics, such as flat feet or high arches
  • Having an occupation that keeps you on your feet for long hours

Starting a new activity or suddenly increasing the intensity of physical activity can also increase your risk of plantar fasciitis.

First, the team at Michfoot Surgeons will review your symptoms and medical history. We will examine your foot, checking for areas of tenderness and limited motion. We may take an X-ray to rule out other causes of heel pain, such as arthritis or fractures.

Then, we will develop an individualized treatment plan. Most patients with plantar fasciitis experience significant improvement with nonsurgical treatment, such as:

  • Physical therapy
  • Resting, icing and stretching the foot
  • Wearing orthotic insoles and/or a night splint
  • Taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication

If you continue to suffer from the pain and symptoms of plantar fasciitis after several months of treatment, we may recommend surgery.

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Your Feet Deserve 5-Star Treatment

“Dr. Leff and his staff are simply wonderful. Dr. Leff knows what he is doing. He is professional, experienced and takes the time to help you understand …”

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