Are you suffering from heel pain that flares up when you first get out of bed in the morning? Does jogging, hitting the gym, or running for the bus make your heel hurt? Does climbing stairs or standing on your tip-toes result in heel pain, too? According to the top-rated podiatrists with The Foot Doctors of KC, answering “yes” to any of the questions may indicate that you have plantar fasciitis. The next question is, “what in the world is plantar fasciitis?”

WHAT IS PLANTAR FASCIITIS?

There is a band of tissue called the plantar fascia that runs along the bottom of your foot from your heel bone to your toes. That tissue typically acts like the shocks in a car, absorbing impact and protecting the rest of your foot in the process, but when the impact is too sudden, too violent, or ongoing to a degree the plantar fascia can’t handle, it suffers tiny tears that lead to inflammation. That inflammation is called plantar fasciitis.

HOW IS PLANTAR FASCIITIS DIAGNOSED?

When you visit The Foot Doctors of KC, you’ll be given a comprehensive exam while you discuss your recent physical activities and disclose whether you’ve experienced any of the following symptoms:

  • Sharp pain in your heel that radiates from the ground up
  • Heel pain that’s worse first thing in the morning
  • Increased heel pain when climbing stairs or standing on the tips of your toes
  • Worsening heel pain after standing for a long period of time
  • Heel pain following exercise
  • Mild swelling in your heel

Our podiatrists may also use diagnostic tests such as digital x-rays or ultrasound to assess the fascia in your foot or rule out other possible causes of your discomfort.

HOW IS PLANTAR FASCIITIS TREATED?

The treatment for plantar fasciitis varies from person to person. Your best bet is a customized plan including rest, ice, anti-inflammatories, comfortable shoes, stretching, and orthotic insoles that help support the natural contours of the foot. Topical gels, massages, night splints, and cortisone injections have also been shown to work in some cases.

At The Foot Doctors of KC in Lee’s Summit, Missouri and Belton, Missouri, we have the expertise, cutting-edge equipment, and innovative techniques necessary to quickly diagnose the cause of your heel pain and offer quick relief. If you are ready to get back to your normal day-to-day life, call us today at 816.525.4778 to schedule a consultation.

THIS INFORMATION IS NOT MEANT AS MEDICAL ADVICE – IT IS PROVIDED SOLELY FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES. OUR PODIATRY OFFICES IN LEE’S SUMMIT AND BELTON, MISSOURI WOULD BE PLEASED TO DISCUSS YOUR UNIQUE CIRCUMSTANCES AND NEEDS AS THEY RELATE TO THESE TOPICS.

No-Show Appt Charge $25 (if not canceled 24 hours before)

Pin It on Pinterest

Share This