Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis, or inflammation of your plantar fascia, can cause agonizing foot and heel pain, particularly first thing in the morning after getting out of bed. If you have a history of plantar fasciitis, book an evaluation with Nrupa Shah, DPM, and the team at Prime Foot and Ankle Care in South Brunswick, New Jersey. Call the office or request a plantar fasciitis evaluation online today. 

What causes plantar fasciitis?

Your plantar fascia is the connective tissue in your heel that stretches across the bottom length of your foot, all the way to your toes. If this band becomes inflamed, you develop plantar fasciitis. 

It’s common for plantar fasciitis to occur because of overuse and wear-and-tear. Distance running, sporting activities, and working on your feet can all strain your plantar fascia and lead to inflammation. But you can also struggle with plantar fasciitis due to:

• Developing heel spurs 
• Having overpronation issues
• Being obese or overweight
• Wearing improper or non-supportive shoes

Your risk of plantar fasciitis further increases if you have high arches, flat feet, or other inherited faulty foot mechanics.

Do I need to see a podiatrist for plantar fasciitis?

Yes, plantar fasciitis is entirely manageable, so you don’t have to live with the chronic discomfort any longer. You should come to Prime Foot and Ankle Care for a foot exam if you have:

• Heel or arch pain
• Difficulty performing tasks or exercise
• Foot pain that’s worse after inactivity (like sleeping)
• Foot pain that intensifies after (not during) exercise

Dr. Shah examines you carefully and gathers imaging tests (if needed) to confirm plantar fasciitis and rule out related conditions. 

How does a podiatrist treat plantar fasciitis?

Dr. Shah specializes in modern, highly effective plantar fasciitis solutions. She offers a full array of conservative and aggressive options. To quickly relieve your foot pain and help you heal over time, your podiatrist may recommend:

• Night splints 
• Physical therapy 
• Cortisone injections 
• Custom orthotic inserts
• Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT)
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

You might need foot surgery if these types of conservative treatments aren’t effective or if you have a foot deformity that’s causing your plantar fasciitis. Dr. Shah may recommend surgery to lengthen your calf muscle, release your plantar fascia, remove bone spurs, or make any other necessary corrections to help you experience optimal relief and restore your normal foot functions. 

Prime Foot and Ankle Care provides comprehensive plantar fasciitis management care. Call the office or request an appointment online today.