Plantar fasciitis causes heel pain, due to inflammation of the connective tissue between the heel and the toes. Some people who have a history with plantar fasciitis notice that their symptoms worsen or come back in the winter months. These troubles may be related to the change in footwear as the seasons change. After wearing unsupportive open-toed shoes during the warmer months, your feet need to adjust to a different style of shoe. The best way to lessen symptoms and avoid discomfort is to find the right winter shoe for you. Your shoes should always offer support and be comfortable. A wide toe box is also beneficial for those with plantar fasciitis, so your toes are not being compressed. There are many options for winter footwear that can help prevent the heel pain associated with plantar fasciitis. If you think you may have plantar fasciitis, then it is highly recommended you speak with a podiatrist for more information regarding treatment.

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that is often caused by a strain injury. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Dr. Rosa Roman from Ankle and Foot Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. When this ligament becomes inflamed, plantar fasciitis is the result. If you have plantar fasciitis you will have a stabbing pain that usually occurs with your first steps in the morning. As the day progresses and you walk around more, this pain will start to disappear, but it will return after long periods of standing or sitting.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Having high arches in your feet
• Other foot issues such as flat feet
• Pregnancy (due to the sudden weight gain)
• Being on your feet very often

There are some risk factors that may make you more likely to develop plantar fasciitis compared to others. The condition most commonly affects adults between the ages of 40 and 60. It also tends to affect people who are obese because the extra pounds result in extra stress being placed on the plantar fascia.

Prevention

• Take good care of your feet – Wear shoes that have good arch support and heel cushioning.
• Maintain a healthy weight
• If you are a runner, alternate running with other sports that won’t cause heel pain

There are a variety of treatment options available for plantar fasciitis along with the pain that accompanies it. Additionally, physical therapy is a very important component in the treatment process. It is important that you meet with your podiatrist to determine which treatment option is best for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Bloomfield, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.