Plantar fasciitis causes pain in the bottom of the heel and arch of the foot. It develops when the plantar fascia, a strong band of tissue that supports the arch, becomes damaged and irritated. Many people experience sharp pain with their first steps in the morning or after periods of rest. While most patients improve with treatment provided by a podiatrist, a small number continue to have severe pain that affects daily activities. When symptoms remain intense and limit mobility, surgery may be considered. A podiatrist will carefully evaluate the foot and review previous treatment efforts before recommending an operation. Surgery for plantar fasciitis is usually reserved for cases that have not responded to other forms of care. This is especially true where pain interferes with work, exercise, or normal movement.
The most common procedure is called a plantar fasciotomy. During this surgery, part of the plantar fascia is released to reduce tension and relieve pain. The procedure can be performed through a traditional incision or with smaller surgical tools. A podiatrist will determine which approach is most appropriate based on the severity of the condition. The goal is to decrease strain on the damaged tissue while preserving foot function. As with any surgery, there are risks. These include continued pain, scar discomfort, and changes in the way the foot bears weight. For this reason, surgery is recommended only after a thorough examination and discussion of expected results.
Research has shown encouraging outcomes for many patients who undergo plantar fasciitis surgery. One long-term study found that most patients reported a major reduction in pain and were satisfied with the results years after the procedure. Greater success was seen in patients who had surgery earlier in the course of persistent symptoms. A podiatrist can explain the benefits, risks, and recovery process while helping patients decide whether surgery is an appropriate option. If you have extremely painful plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss the benefits of this type of foot surgery.
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 Prince William Foot & Ankle Center, PC. Our practitioners 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 Gainesville and Dulles, VA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
