Plantar Fasciitis

Heel Pain Treatment in Southeastern Pennsylvania

Does your heel hurt in the morning or after long periods of standing? You may have developed plantar fasciitis. This is a common cause of heel pain caused by tears and inflammation in the fibrous band tissue (fascia). Athletes are at the highest risk of developing plantar fasciitis, but it can happen to anyone. Thankfully, it is not a permanent condition and can usually be treated through noninvasive methods.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis & How to Avoid It

The fascia is responsible for absorbing shock to the foot when it hits the ground. Overuse and intense physical stress can cause the tissue to tear and inflame, causing pain.

Risk factors for plantar fasciitis include:

• Intense exercise that involves the feet
• Sex — this condition is more common in women than men
• Being flat-footed
• Long periods of standing or walking
• Obesity

If you’re an athlete or have a profession that requires you to be on your feet most of the day, it is important to give your feet a break every few days so that the tissues can rest. If taking a day off from standing is not possible, try not to land on your heel when walking or running. Regularly stretching the foot can also help.

Treatment

Over-the-counter painkillers like ibuprofen are often enough to give you relief from plantar fasciitis while the foot heels. In severe cases, however, physical therapy or splintering may be necessary. Patients who regularly experience heel pain may be prescribed an orthotic to support your feet through daily activities. If these more conservative methods fail, steroid injections or even plantar fascia removal surgery may be necessary.