When you walk or run, the thick tissue on the bottom of your feet connecting the front of your foot with your heel—the plantar fascia—stretches and contracts. Repeated stretching and contracting of the plantar fascia can precipitate tearing or inflammation, otherwise known as plantar fasciitis. Runners are often afflicted with plantar fasciitis, which can cause a stabbing pain located on the bottom of the heel. Some simple at-home therapies for plantar fasciitis include refraining from activities that aggravate the area, icing it with an ice pack or massaging it by rolling a frozen water bottle under your feet. Additionally, a podiatrist may be able to help heal the plantar fascia by taping or splinting it, creating custom orthotics, or suggesting proper footwear and gentle stretching exercises.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. James D. McAlexander  from Gig Harbor Foot and Ankle Clinic. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Gig Harbor, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.