Waking up with stabbing heel pain that improves slightly throughout the day? You might have plantar fasciitis — and the good news is, you can fix it without surgery. Let’s break down plantar fasciitis and how you can treat it safely.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is irritation of the plantar fascia — a thick band of tissue that connects your heel to your toes. This fascia supports your foot’s arch and acts like a strong rubber band. Overuse or overstress leads to inflammation and pain, usually centered at the heel.
Causes of Plantar Fasciitis
Common causes include:
-
Poor arch support in footwear
-
Sudden increases in physical activity
-
Weak foot and ankle muscles
-
Long periods standing on hard surfaces
-
Weight gain, adding pressure to the feet
-
Age, especially over 40
Activities like walking barefoot at home or wearing flip-flops can also trigger plantar fasciitis.
Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis
Symptoms include:
-
Sharp, stabbing heel pain
-
Pain that’s worse with the first steps in the morning
-
Discomfort after standing or sitting for long periods
-
Pain that improves with walking but returns later
Importantly, heel spurs are not usually the true source of pain. Plantar fasciitis also differs from nerve pain or foot arthritis.
Diagnosing Plantar Fasciitis
Most cases are diagnosed through a clear history and physical examination. In some cases, high-resolution ultrasound imaging helps confirm the diagnosis and rule out other causes.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
At Chicago Arthritis, we focus on healing, not just masking pain. Here’s the treatment approach:
1. Lifestyle and Movement
-
Stretching: Regular foot and calf stretches
-
Strengthening: Focused exercises for foot muscles and hips
-
Massage: Rolling a tennis ball or frozen water bottle under the foot
-
Supportive Footwear: Always wear shoes, even at home
2. Supportive Devices
-
Orthotics: Custom or over-the-counter arch supports
-
Night Splints: Stretch the fascia overnight
-
Taping: Temporary arch support during activities
3. Address Systemic Health
Managing weight and improving metabolic health helps reduce inflammation and promote healing.
4. Regenerative Injection Treatments
If pain persists:
-
Prolotherapy: Dextrose injections stimulate natural healing.
-
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP): Concentrated growth factors from your own blood boost tissue repair.
Both are performed under ultrasound guidance for safety and precision. These regenerative treatments help heal the plantar fascia, unlike steroids, which can weaken it.
Treatments to Avoid
-
Steroid Injections: They may offer short-term relief but can weaken the fascia.
-
Radiofrequency Ablation: Reduces pain by killing the nerve, but doesn’t heal the tissue.
-
Surgery: A last resort after exhausting all conservative options. Surgery risks include instability and nerve damage.
If conservative treatments fail, your doctor should re-evaluate if the pain may be coming from a pinched nerve in the ankle or lower back.
Key Takeaways
Plantar fasciitis is a common, treatable condition that usually improves without surgery. Focus on restoring foot strength, improving overall health, and using regenerative options if needed.
If you’re ready to start your recovery journey, visit us at ChicagoArthritis.com.
The Hidden Link Between Foot Pain and Back Issues Explained!
PRP for Achilles Tendinitis: What Works, What Doesn’t, and Why