Plantar Fasciitis

Causes of Plantar Fasciitis

The most common cause of plantar fasciitis relates to the faulty structure of the foot. For example, people who have problems with their arches, either overly flat feet or high-arched feet, are more prone to developing plantar fasciitis. Wearing non-supportive footwear on hard, flat surfaces puts abnormal strain on the plantar fascia and can also lead to plantar fasciitis. This is particularly evident when one’s job requires long hours on the feet. Obesity may also contribute to plantar fasciitis.

Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis

The symptoms of plantar fasciitis are:

• Pain on the bottom of the heel
• Pain in the arch of the foot
• Pain that is usually worse upon arising
• Pain that increases over a period of months

People with plantar fasciitis often describe the pain as worse when they get up in the morning or after they’ve been sitting for long periods of time. After a few minutes of walking, the pain decreases as walking stretches the fascia. For some people, the pain subsides but returns after spending long periods of time on their feet.

Diagnosis for Plantar Fasciitis

To arrive at a diagnosis, Dr. O'Neill will obtain your medical history and examine your foot. Throughout this process, he will rule out all the possible causes for your heel pain other than plantar fasciitis. In addition, diagnostic imaging studies such as x-rays or other imaging modalities may be used to distinguish the different types of heel pain.

Sometimes heel spurs are found in patients with plantar fasciitis, but these are rarely a source of pain. When they are present, the condition may be diagnosed as plantar fasciitis/heel spur syndrome.

Non-Surgical Treatment for Plantar Fasciitis

Non-surgical treatment for plantar fasciitis can include:

• Stretching exercises
• Avoid going barefoot
• Icing the affected area
• Limit physical activities
• Shoe modifications
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Orthotics
• Injection therapy
• Night splint
• Physical therapy

Dr. O'Neill will perform a thorough examination at your initial consultation to determine which treatment will work best for your needs. Schedule your appointment today to get relief from your pain!

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Contact Us for Treatment for Plantar Fasciitis in Pomona, CA & the La Verne & Claremont, CA, Areas