Plantar fasciitis / heel pain

Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the long band of connective tissue running from the heel to the ball of the foot. Heel spur syndrome is a bony overgrowth on the heel bone. Plantar fasciitis and heel spur syndrome affect women more than men. They can cause the bottom of the heel and arch to become painful. 

Causes

• Stretching the long band of tissue that connects the heel and the ball of the foot.
• Muscle imbalance
• Bone deformity
• Obesity
• Trauma
• Tightness of the muscles on the back of the leg

What can you do?

• Warm up and stretch properly before exercise
• Wear appropriate shoe gear.
• RICE - rest, ice, compression and elevation.

What might the podiatrist do?

• Perform a physical exam of the foot
• Take an x-ray
• Perform taking and strapping
• Prescribe orthotics
• Prescribe appropriate medication
• Administer injections
• Perform surgery if necessary
• Instruct in appropriate exercise.