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 can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact Ramin Nadjafi, DPM from Advanced Podiatry Group. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
- Excessive running
- Non-supportive shoes
- Overpronation
- Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia
How Can It Be Treated?
- Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
- Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
- Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel
While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Orlando, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
