The Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis

According to a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine, roughly 15 percent of foot conditions that must be treated by a podiatrist are caused by plantar fasciitis. If you are familiar with the symptoms of plantar fasciitis, take immediate action to have the problem treated by your Clifton, Fort Lee, and Wayne, NJ, podiatrist. It’s a problem that can get progressively worse with time without necessary therapies. 

Plantar Fasciitis Causes
The plantar fascia is a long band of connective tissue that runs below the foot. It attaches the toe bone to the heel bone. It can stretch and become inflamed due to frequent participation in physical activities, like running. Patients who are carrying extra weight are also at a higher risk of plantar fasciitis symptoms. A study published in the Medical Clinics of North America found that obesity plays a role in 70 percent of cases. Some people are born with feet that are poorly structured and prone to plantar fascia injuries.

Plantar Fasciitis Signs and Symptoms
One sign of a potential case of plantar fasciitis is flat feet. There should be an arch at the inside center of each foot. If that arch isn’t there, it may mean that the plantar fascia is stretched out. Other symptoms include:

- Foot or heel pain that reduces your activity level.
- Heel spurs (bony growths under the heel bone).
- Swelling or a throbbing sensation below the heel and beneath the feet.

Treatments Available
The plantar fascia ligament can be successfully repaired in many cases with a proper diagnosis and consistent therapy. These are some of the treatments that your Clifton, Fort Lee, and Wayne podiatrist may use to improve the condition of your feet:

- Stretching exercises that help relieve pain.
- Modifications to your shoes and activities.
- Oral medication or injection therapy (corticosteroid injections).
- Night splinting, padding, and custom orthotics.
- A surgical procedure when other non-invasive methods don’t provide results.

The Way to Better Feet
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most diagnosed foot problems in podiatry. If you want to hit the ground running with healthier feet, call (973) 692-1111 today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Humaira Syed. She is an experienced podiatrist who is proud to serve patients at Reds Ankle & Foot Associates, with locations in Clifton, Fort Lee, and Wayne, NJ.