Many athletes suffer from a foot condition that is known as plantar fasciitis. It is a common ailment that comes from the repetitive force while participating in running and jumping activities. It may also affect people who wear shoes that do not fit correctly, or who have an abnormal foot structure. Additionally, it may happen to people who stand on hard surfaces for most of the day, or increase speed and distance too quickly while running. Plantar fasciitis happens as a result of an inflammation of the plantar fascia, which is the band of tissue that is found on the sole of the foot. It connects the heel to the toes, and an injury or a tear to the plantar fascia may result in the development of this condition. Heel pain is a common symptom of plantar fasciitis, and it may be worse in the morning after arising. Relief may be found when weight is kept off of the affected foot, and is frequently elevated while resting. Some patients have found success when specific stretches are done, and this may help to accelerate healing. If you have heel pain, it is strongly advised that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can properly diagnose and treat plantar fasciitis. 

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists from Houston Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Kingwood, Humble, The Woodlands, and Conroe, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.