Plantar fasciitis is primarily characterized by heel pain, which can make daily activities difficult. This condition results from the pulling or tearing of the plantar fascia, often caused by improper stretching during exercise or unsuitable footwear. A podiatrist will carefully examine your foot to recommend the appropriate treatment, which generally falls into six options.
1. Foot orthoses
Plantar fasciitis can be relieved quickly with the use of foot orthoses. Custom orthotics, designed by a podiatrist after taking an impression of your foot, provide tailored arch support and reduce heel tension, aiding recovery. They can be made to fit all your shoes, often requiring a special shoe.
2. High power laser therapy
High-power laser therapy improves blood circulation and reduces inflammation. The podiatrist directs laser beams through the skin, delivering energy that immediately relieves pain and promotes healing, offering a less invasive alternative to surgery. Treatment duration varies per case.
3. ShockWave therapy
ShockWave therapy sends shock waves into the heel as a non-surgical treatment. This therapy reacts with the inflamed tissue to ease pain, stimulate collagen synthesis for ligament healing, increase blood flow, and break down scar tissue. Certain medical conditions like diabetes or pregnancy may restrict its use, so consulting your podiatrist beforehand is important.
4. Manual foot therapy
Manual foot therapy combines expert massage techniques and joint mobilization by your podiatrist to relieve plantar fasciitis pain. The podiatrist identifies pain sources and applies gentle, precise movements tailored to your needs after assessing your condition.
5. Cortisone injection
Cortisone injections are considered when other treatments fail. Cortisone, a natural hormone that reduces inflammation and pain, is injected under ultrasound guidance to ensure precision. Side effects such as irritation or skin discoloration may occur; discuss suitability with your podiatrist.
6. Podiatric surgery
If non-surgical treatments are ineffective, podiatric surgery may be an option. Surgery can permanently relieve plantar fasciitis pain but is considered a last resort. Two surgical methods include the dry needle procedure and plantar fascia release surgery.
Your podiatrist can help relieve your plantar fasciitis
Since every case of plantar fasciitis is unique and can worsen if untreated, seeking prompt treatment from a podiatrist is essential. Treatment options include:
- Foot orthoses prescribed by a podiatrist
- Various therapies offered by podiatry professionals
- Podiatric surgeries