Plantar fasciitis is a foot condition associated with heel pain and sometimes pain and stiffness in the arches, as well. The condition develops as a result of damage to the plantar fascia tissues that run along the bottom of the feet, often due to overuse, repeated stress, or daily wear and tear. Left untreated, plantar fasciitis could become worse. The experienced podiatrists at Warrenton and Fair Oaks Foot and Ankle in Warrenton & Fair Oaks, VA, treat plantar fasciitis and other foot conditions. 

Causes of Plantar Fasciitis

The plantar fascia tissues are a thick band of connective tissues running along the bottom of the foot from the heels to the toes. These tissues help stabilize the feet, support the arches, and provide shock absorption. Over time, overuse and other factors can result in the plantar fascia tissues developing small tears and becoming inflamed, which can lead to heel pain. 

Some of the factors that can lead to tissue damage and the development of plantar fasciitis include:

• Being overweight 
• Being on the feet for prolonged periods
• Wearing shoes with insufficient support, such as high heels
• Engaging in high impact activities (e.g., running and other sports)
• Walking with an irregular gait (e.g., overpronating)
• Long-distance running

Treatment for Plantar Fasciitis

A key aspect of treating plantar fasciitis is staying off the affected foot and allowing it to rest so the damaged plantar fascia tissues can heal. Physical activity should be limited during treatment and recovery. 

In addition to resting and limiting activity, the skilled podiatrists at our offices in Warrenton & Fair Oaks, VA, treat plantar fasciitis using a variety of methods, including:

• Applying ice
• Custom orthotics 
• Anti-inflammatory medications 
• Stretching and strengthening exercises
• Recommendations for supportive footwear
• Removable walking cast
• Padding and strapping
• Night splints 
• Surgery 

Preventing Plantar Fasciitis 

There are some steps that can be taken to help prevent plantar fasciitis. Wearing shoes with adequate support and cushioning is one thing you can do. Another way to prevent plantar fasciitis is to maintain a healthy body weight. Carrying excess weight can put additional stress on the planter fascia tissues, which can cause them to develop tears. 

Other steps to prevent plantar fasciitis include performing foot stretching and strengthening exercises and taking breaks regularly if you tend to be on your feet for extended periods. It is also helpful to vary repetitive movements or workouts to minimize stress and avoid overuse of the plantar fascia tissues. For example, individuals who run regularly could give their feet a break by bicycling or swimming on some days instead of running.

If you are dealing with pain, discomfort, and stiffness due to plantar fasciitis, but we can help. Schedule an appointment with one of our knowledgeable podiatrists to learn more about the different options for treating plantar fasciitis by calling Warrenton and Fair Oaks Foot and Ankle in Warrenton & Fair Oaks, VA, at (540) 347-9393 for the Warrenton office or at (703) 264-0500 for Fair Oaks.