Plantar Fasciitis: Signs & Symptoms

Is plantar fasciitis the reason you’re dealing with heel pain? 

Do you have heel pain that radiates from the bottom of the heel to the arch? Does it feel like you are stepping on a floor of knives when you first get up in the morning? If you said yes then your heel pain could be due to an overuse injury known as plantar fasciitis, which causes inflammation in the thick bundle of tissue that runs from the toes to the heels. From the office of our Danbury & Plainville, CT, podiatrists Dr. Joseph Treadwell and Dr. Christian Davis, find out what you can do to treat plantar fasciitis.

What is plantar fasciitis? 

This condition impacts the thick, fibrous band of tissue known as the plantar fascia. This tissue serves to support the arches of the feet and it connects the toes with the heel bone. Plantar fasciitis can be acute or chronic. Acute plantar fasciitis often comes about suddenly and can be triggered by an injury or by an intense workout. Chronic forms, on the other hand, often develop over time as a result of overuse.

What are the telltale symptoms of plantar fasciitis? 

The most obvious symptom of this condition is pain at the bottom of the heel, which may extend to the arches of the foot. While the pain may be mild, you may notice more severe pain after long periods of inactivity. Symptoms may ease up throughout the day but get worse by the evening. Your foot pain may also be accompanied by stiffness or swelling.

When should I see a podiatrist? 

If the pain doesn’t get better within a week, or if symptoms get worse, then it’s a good idea to see one of our Danbury & Plainville, CT, podiatrists as soon as possible for an evaluation. After all, just because plantar fasciitis often causes heel pain doesn’t mean that it is the only cause.

I have plantar fasciitis. Now what?

You’ll be happy to hear that treating plantar fasciitis is often quite simple. In fact, most people can treat their symptoms with easy, at-home care and proper rest. The best thing you can do is to stay off your foot as much as possible and to avoid any high-impact activities like running.

Taking painkillers, applying ice, stretching your foot throughout the day, and even wearing a brace to help support the arches and alleviate pain can help manage your symptoms. Only if your condition doesn’t improve within 12 weeks will your podiatrist discuss other treatment options such as steroid injections to alleviate pain and inflammation.

Foot & Ankle Specialists of Connecticut is dedicated to providing you with the plantar fasciitis treatment you need. To schedule an evaluation with our Danbury & Plainville, CT, podiatrists, call (203) 748-2220 or (860) 747-2200 today.