Heel pain is the most common presenting symptom of Plantar Fasciitis. In fact, it is one of the most common orthopedic complaints. Plantar fasciitis presents as a sharp stabbing pain that is usually felt in the morning. Upon waking up, the first steps you take triggers the pain. It is also present after routine exercises when your feet are at rest. It is not common during the act of exercise but after completing the exercise. Sometimes, it is difficult to raise your toes, which can increase the pain.
The heel has a group of thick connecting tissues that run across the bottom of the foot. This band of tissue connects your toes (also known as plantar fascia) to your heel bone.
The shape of the plantar fascia or the group of tissues at the bottom of your foot is like a thick web-like bowstring. Its main purpose is to absorb pressure and supports the arch of your foot while walking or running. When the plantar fascia goes through constant pressure, it can damage the ligaments. It may become inflamed which results in stiffness, foot and heel pain.
When there is inflammation in the connecting tissues of the platar side of the foot, it can cause heel pain to become evident. It usually radiates from your toes to the bottom of your foot and towards the heel bone. You can feel heel pain upon waking up in the morning, after prolonged standing or sitting position and after exercise routines. Pain may decrease when you get up and get moving in the morning. The slow stretching usually helps to reduce the pain.
This painful condition is more common in runners, those who are overweight, flat-footed people and people who wear inappropriate shoe design.
Not everyone will experience Plantar Fasciitis. There are certain groups of people who have higher risks of developing heel pain. Here are some indications that you might be susceptible to Plantar Fasciitis.
When you have ongoing pain on the undersurface of the foot or heel you may need an evaluation by a healthcare provider. Evaluation will include examination of the muscles, ligaments, tendons and joints in the foot and ankle.
Diagnostic tests, if necessary, might include x-ray or possibly an MRI examination.
If you have plantar fasciitis, it is important that you find treatment to resolve the issue. Proper conservative treatment can typically resolve the condition.
Dr. Brent Ungar, located in Canton OH, uses cold laser therapy for platar fasciitis treatment. This type of drug-free therapy can help to reduce inflammation, reduce pain and restore proper blood flow into the area for healing.
You can schedule an appointment with Dr. Ungar by clling 330-493-0009.
Source: https://www.healthline.com/health/plantar-fasciitis#testing-and-diagnosis