Keeping an active lifestyle is so beneficial. But, did you know that your job or daily jog may contribute to an inflammatory condition in your feet? It's called plantar fasciitis, and it impacts the connective tissue between your heel and toes. At Hampton Roads Foot and Ankle Specialists in Williamsburg, VA, Dr. Sara Bouraee and Dr. Jon Houseworth detect and treat this common podiatric issue.
How plantar fasciitis happens
Advancing age and increased body weight (obesity) contribute to the pain and burning across the arch of the foot. Poor gait (specifically a rotation of the foot toward the midline of the body), flat arches and simple overuse escalate plantar fasciitis.
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) says about two million adults in the United State develop this issue every year. However, most of these people manage symptoms well and avoid corrective surgery (plantar fascia release) when they promptly seek medical care.
Diagnosis and intervention
Dr. Bouraee and Dr. Houseworth do a simple hands-on and eyes-on exam at Hampton Roads Foot and Ankle Specialists in Williamsburg, VA. Most people report pain right in front of the heel. The discomfort increases when the podiatrist flexes the foot. The doctor may take an X-ray to locate any heel spurs as bony projections can accompany plantar fasciitis.
Treatment plans usually include a customized combination of:
- Stretching exercises for the foot and calf
- Over the counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatories (ibuprofen)
- Resting and application of ice packs
- Cortisone injections to the arch to reduce inflammation
- Shoes with good arch support
- Use of customized orthotics to cushion and balance poor gait
- Achieving and keeping a healthy body weight
- Wearing night splints to prevent foot drop as you sleep (most effective for young patients)
American Family Physician reports that 14 percent of people with symptoms of plantar fasciitis improve significantly by simply wearing quality shoes with an adequate report in the arches and heels.
Treat your feet well
Don't ignore the symptoms of plantar fasciitis. Relieve them with the help of Dr. Sara Bouraee and Dr. Jon Houseworth. Call today for an appointment at either of our two offices. For Hampton Roads Foot and Ankle Specialists in Williamsburg, VA, phone (757) 220-3311 and in Hampton, VA, call (757) 224-7605.