Understanding Plantar Fasciitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Suppose your foot, especially your heel, aches after a long workday. Dr. Tod Reed, director of Cardinal Foot & Ankle, located in Muncie, IN, is available to discuss plantar fasciitis and a plan of treatment regarding your foot pain and quality of life.

A Pain In The Foot

Plantar fasciitis is the aggravation of the thick band, called the plantar fascia, running along the bottom of your foot. This dense, fibrous band forms the natural arch on the bottom of your foot. 

This plantar band can become inflamed when used too much or if it gets stretched beyond use. One or both feet can be affected by this condition. Once there is damage, your foot will become swollen and difficult to walk on. If this condition lasts longer than five to seven days, you should see our doctor. 

Signs and Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis

According to Dr. Reed, director of Cardinal Foot & Ankle located in Muncie, IN, these are the signs and symptoms associated with plantar fasciitis. You may have a few or all of the following.

• Pain in your foot's natural arch
• Achilles tendon tightness
• Joint stiffness
• Swollen heels
• Stabbing or sharp pain
• Pain in the morning or evening when you put your feet up and rest

Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment of Plantar Fasciitis

The health of your feet is essential to your quality of life, but sometimes you can overwork your feet. This type of pain can be caused by playing sports frequently, wearing ill-fitting shoes, having unsupportive arches in your footwear, standing or walking all day on hard surfaces, having naturally high-arched feet, being overweight, and having naturally flat feet. 

Our doctor can examine your foot and show you how to lessen or eliminate your pain. Dr. Reed can correctly diagnose your foot pain after he examines it, including by pressing on the plantar fascia. 

Your treatment may include over-the-counter medications for inflammation, icing the area several times a day, rest, orthopedic shoes or custom inserts to support your arch, steroid treatment, lifestyle changes, or a support boot. 

Call for Quality Foot Care Today! 

For all your foot problems, including plantar fasciitis, call Dr. Reed of Cardinal Foot & Ankle, located in Muncie, IN, at 765-287-8279. We await your call for treatment.