Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common reasons adults visit us at CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists. While it feels like your foot is falling apart, it is actually a highly manageable condition.
If you suspect your feet are screaming at you for a reason, here is the essential breakdown of what you are dealing with and how you can start feeling better.
What Exactly Is Plantar Fasciitis?
When you put too much stress on your plantar fascia, it develops tiny micro-tears. Your body responds with inflammation, leading to that hallmark stiffness.
It’s a simple formula that can lead to a decade of pain. So, here’s what to look for.
Key Symptoms You Should Look For
How do you know it is plantar fasciitis and not just a tired foot?
- Intense pain during your first few steps out of bed or after sitting for a long time.
- The pain usually doesn’t happen during a workout, but rather right after you stop moving.
- A specific spot on the bottom of your heel that feels bruised when you press on it
Common Causes of Plantar Fasciitis You Might Not Suspect
It isn’t always about running a marathon.
If you have recently changed your footwear to shoes with no support, like flip-flops or worn-out flats, your fascia is taking a beating.
Other factors include:
- having very high or very flat arches
- standing on hard surfaces for long shifts
- tight calf muscles that pull on the heel
Simple Ways to Find Relief at Home
If you think you have it, don’t wait for it to go away on its own. It rarely does without a little help.
Here’s one do and one don’t you can follow at home:
- DO: Gently stretch before you even get out of bed. Try pulling your toes back toward your shin to wake up the ligament.
- DON’T: walk barefoot. Even inside the house, you need a supportive slipper or shoe to take the pressure off that healing tissue.
When Is It Time to See a Podiatrist?
If you have been resting and icing for a few weeks but still find yourself wincing at the gym, it is time to call us. A podiatrist can offer advanced treatments like custom orthotics, night splints, or physical therapy to ensure the tissue heals correctly.
For any podiatric concerns you’re dealing with, see Dr. Hubert Lee and the team at CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists for guidance and advice. You can schedule an appointment online or call today at 425-455-0936.