flickr.com/photos/flea_ef/ 4462368202

Is the first step of the day your worst?    Plantar fasciitis may be your problem.

Risk factors for plantar fasciitis are

• excessive running,
• high arch,
• when one leg is longer than the other,
• obesity,
• occupations with prolonged standing or walking,
• sedentary lifestyle,  and
• Achilles tendon tightness.

Your physician will perform a history and physical which may reveal plantar fasciitis as the diagnosis.  X-rays are rarely needed.

Treatment can be done in stages.  Initial treatment should be tried for a few weeks.

1. rest
2. modification of activities,
3. ice massage,
4. pain medication, and
5. stretching
   

   night splint flickr.com/photos/ cellphonesusie/1294933595/

If heel pain persists, then physical therapy, foot orthotics, and night splinting (see picture) may be needed.

Foot orthotics  are inserts that fit into shoes.  Ones that may help include over-the-counter heel cups, over-the-counter heel or arch orthotics, and custom-made foot orthotic.

90% of patients will improve with the above techniques.  Pain lasting 6 months depspite therapy may require shock wave therapy or a surgery called plantar fasciotomy.

Here’s a video of stretching exercises http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t2KkdMlqRZU

Hope this helps.