PLANTAR FASCIITIS

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

One of the most common causes of heel pain is a problem called "plantar fasciitis." Plantar fasciitis is the term doctors use when a part of the foot called the plantar fascia gets irritated. The plantar fascia is a tough band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes.

Heel pain caused by plantar fasciitis is very common. It often affects people who run, jump, or stand for long periods. Most people who get this type of heel pain get better within a year even if they do not get treated.

What are the symptoms of plantar fasciitis?

The most common symptom is pain under the heel and sole (bottom) of the foot. The pain is often worse when you first get out of bed in the morning. It can also be bad when you get up after being seated for some time.

Is there anything I can do on my own to feel better?

Yes.

●Rest – Rest your foot to help it heal. But don't completely stop being active. Doing that can lead to more pain and stiffness in the long run.

●Ice your foot – Putting ice on your heel for 20 minutes up to 4 times a day might relieve pain. Put a thin towel between the ice and your skin. Icing and massaging your foot before exercise might also help.

●Do special foot exercises – Certain exercises can help with heel pain. 

●Take pain medicines – If your pain is severe, you can try taking over-the-counter pain medicines. Examples include ibuprofen (sample brand names: Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (sample brand name: Aleve). But if you have other medical conditions or already take other medicines, ask your doctor or nurse before taking new pain medicines.

●Wear sturdy shoes – Sneakers with a lot of cushion and good arch and heel support  are best. Shoes with rigid soles can also help. Adding padded or gel heel inserts to your shoes might help, too.

●Wear splints at night – Some people feel better if they wear a splint while they sleep that keeps their foot straight. These splints are sold in pharmacies and medical supply stores.  You can also purchase arch support insoles.

Is there a test for plantar fasciitis?

No. But your doctor should be able to tell if you have it by learning about your symptoms and doing an exam. They might suggest an X-ray, or other tests to check whether your symptoms might be caused by something else.

Can I get treatment at urgent care?

Yes! Ocean Urgent Care provides treatment for plantar fasciitis. Our providers might suggest:

●Taping up your foot in a special way that helps the support the foot

●Special shoe inserts made to fit your foot

●Shots of a medicine called steroids, which can help with the pain

●Putting a splint over your foot and ankle

●Surgery (this is only an option for some people who do not get better with other treatments)

Is there anything I can do to keep from getting heel pain again?

Yes. To reduce the chances that your pain will come back:

●Wear shoes that fit well, have a lot of cushion, and support the heel and ankle.

●Limit wearing slippers, flip-flops, slip-ons, or poorly fitted shoes.

●Do not go barefoot.

●Do not wear worn-out shoes.

Written by editors and doctors of Up-to-Date medical reference 2023.