Plantar Fasciitis

The plantar fascia is a thick ligament that plays a crucial role in supporting the arch of your foot and absorbing shock during walking and other weight-bearing activities. If you experience frequent pain from plantar fasciitis, a condition that inflames this tissue, experienced podiatrist Carl Ingrassia, DPM, can help at Fords Foot and Ankle Care in Fords, New Jersey. Dr. Ingrassia offers innovative solutions, such as physical therapy with laser treatments, to deliver lasting pain relief from plantar fasciitis. Call the office today or schedule an appointment online to learn more.

What is plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is a painful condition that affects the thick band of tissue connecting the bottom of the toes to the heel bone. The plantar fascia runs along the foot’s arch, leaving it vulnerable to stress, inflammation, and wear-and-tear. Standing, walking, and running can aggravate plantar fasciitis and worsen the pain.

With more than 30 years of experience treating plantar fasciitis, Dr. Ingrassia can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain to minimize your chances of needing surgery.

What are the most common signs of plantar fasciitis?

Knowing the signs of plantar fasciitis ensures you have the information you need to seek proper treatment. Warning signs of plantar fasciitis include:

• Heel pain
• Sore arches
• Heels that feel tender when squeezed
• Pain that worsens with walking and running
• Stiffness in the foot and heel
• Difficulty climbing stairs

Elevating your feet and resting may help ease discomfort from plantar fasciitis. If you frequently experience foot and heel pain that resolves after a night of rest, an inflamed plantar fascia may be to blame.

What causes plantar fasciitis?

Repetitive stress and overuse almost always cause plantar fasciitis, but certain factors can increase your risk, including:

• Improper foot mechanics (overpronation, underpronation, flat feet, etc.)
• Inadequate footwear, especially shoes with poor arch support
• Excess weight
• Tight calf muscles
• Sudden increase in activity
• Older age
• Occupations that require standing for long periods
• Inadequate warmup or stretching

Dr. Ingrassia reviews your medical history, conducts a foot evaluation, and takes digital X-rays to determine plantar fasciitis’ underlying cause. This essential information helps him create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.

What are the most effective treatments for plantar fasciitis?

Dr. Ingrassia can help relieve pain from plantar fasciitis and prevent complications, like heel spurs (bony protrusions that can form on the heel). Treatments for plantar fasciitis may include:

• Rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE)
• Custom-made orthotics
• Exercise and stretches to relieve tightness
• Anti-inflammatory pain relievers
• Night splinting
• Heel pads
• Endoscopic plantar fasciotomy (minimally invasive surgery)
• Laser treatments
• Physical therapy
• Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT)
• Ultrasound therapy

The sooner you seek help for plantar fasciitis, the more likely you are to find relief from conservative treatments.

Call Fords Foot and Ankle Care today or schedule an appointment online to learn more.