Plantar fasciitis is the most common form of heel pain. It occurs when the long band of fibrous tissue that spans the sole of the feet (plantar fascia) becomes overly stressed and inflamed. Podiatrists treat plantar fasciitis with a variety of methods. In certain cases, your podiatrist may suggest using Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT). This non-invasive treatment has been FDA-approved for plantar fasciitis, and has been successful in reducing pain and stimulating the body’s natural healing process. ESWT sends targeted high-energy sound waves to the plantar fascia, which breaks up scar tissue, and stimulates new tissue cell growth. ESWT is similar to shockwave lithotripsy, which has been used for years to break up kidney stones. ESWT treatments are safe and can be administered in approximately 30 minutes per foot. Your podiatrist may need to repeat ESWT sessions three to five times before you begin to feel relief. Reach out to your podiatrist to see if ESWT is an option to treat your plantar fasciitis.

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.