Plantar Fasciitis: What Is It And What Can Be Done?

You feel it right when you step out of bed in the morning; that sharp pain in your heel that makes it feel like it’s being torn. It is a shocking start to your day. This is often pain caused from plantar fasciitis. Dr. Elizabeth E. Auger, DPM diagnoses and treats patients with plantar fasciitis in her West Jordan, UT, Salt Lake City, UT, and Sandy, UT locations.

The plantar fascia is the stretch of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot; connecting the heel to the toes. Plantar fasciitis causes pain that is usually the worst first thing in the morning or after sitting for a long period of time. When the tissue isn’t used overnight or while sitting down, it tends to tighten. When it is in use, it stretches out; sort of like a rubber band. The pain can also be present after intense activity.

Plantar fasciitis begins with tiny tears or stress on the fascia. They can become irritated and inflamed if not allowed to heal. Certain types of activity can increase the risk for plantar fasciitis like running and dancing. Having very high arches or flat feet can also increase the risk of developing plantar fasciitis. If you do not treat this condition, it can lead to a change in the way you walk. When pain starts in the feet, it travels up to the knees, the hips, the back, and even the neck.

Dr. Auger treats plantar fasciitis so that her patients can move on from the pain and regain a healthy fascia. Most routes of treatment involve physical therapy. Stretching the fascia and the Achilles tendon and strengthening the surrounding muscles will help condition the area. A splint may be suggested to be worn at night for additional stretching. For more help while on your feet, custom orthotics are available. They provide unique support where your specific feet need it.

At home, you should frequently stretch your arches and your Achilles tendons. To reduce pain and inflammation, apply ice packs to the area. You can even use a frozen water bottle to roll under your arch.

Do not let plantar fasciitis keep you from achieving your goals and living your day-to-day life. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Elizabeth E. Auger, DPM in one of her locations, call us at (801) 619-2170. Dr. Auger is available in West Jordan, UT, Salt Lake City, UT, and Sandy, UT. For more information, visit our website, www.slcpodiatrist.com.