Understanding Plantar Fasciitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Dr. Mark Moss and the podiatrists at Coastal Foot & Ankle Associates in Houston and Pearland, TX help patients manage heel pain to stay active and on their feet. Heel pain is very common, but that does not mean you have to keep limping around! Read more about heel pain and contact us today for an appointment.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

Heel pain, or plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia, the thick band of muscle that runs along the base of your foot, becomes inflamed. This is typically from overuse. We see many athletes and people who work long hours on their feet dealing with plantar fasciitis. Patients who have foot deformities like flat feet and high arches and patients who are obese are also more likely to suffer from heel pain, but it can happen to anyone with enough activity.

What are The Symptoms?

Plantar fasciitis causes pain, stiffness, and swelling in the foot. Pain from plantar fasciitis is most intense when you first get up and start moving, and starts to subside as your foot stretches out. If you are walking around with heel pain in Houston, TX, come see a podiatrist for treatment. They will perform a physical exam and may want you to have an X-ray to rule out other problems.

How Do You Treat Heel Pain?

Like any overuse injury, resting and keeping weight off the feet will be important to help you heal plantar fasciitis. Icing the heels can help decrease inflammation and ease your pain, and you can do it several times a day (for 20 minutes at a time) for relief. When you get back on your feet, choose the right supportive shoes for work and your favorite activities. Ask your podiatrist about their recommendations for your lifestyle.

A foot doctor can fit you with custom shoe orthotics that provide extra support for your heel to relieve pain, and extra cushion to absorb impact. Your podiatrist can also teach you physical therapy exercises to stretch and strengthen the foot. You need to practice these before activity and regularly to maintain flexibility and help prevent injury. Maintaining a healthy weight also reduces strain on your heels.

Get Back On Your Feet

Coastal Foot & Ankle Associates is here for you when you are suffering from heel pain. To make an appointment with Dr. Mark Moss, contact us today in Pearland at (281) 485-2988, and in Houston at (281) 484-2400.