Living With Plantar Fasciitis

If the first steps you take in the morning are anything but pleasant because of foot pain, you may be living with plantar fasciitis. While the pain might decrease as you move about, it’s likely to return after lengthy periods on your feet or whenever you stand up. 

Thankfully, there’s a lot you and your podiatrist can do to improve your symptoms, and as a result, enhance your overall quality of life.

If you suspect that you have plantar fasciitis, our experienced team of podiatrists at Arlington Foot and Ankle Centers can help. With proper diagnosis and treatment, you can get relief soon.

Plantar fasciitis medication

Once your doctor has confirmed that you have plantar fasciitis, likely through an exam and possibly an X-ray to rule out other causes of your foot pain, they may recommend medication to minimize your symptoms. 

Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as naproxen sodium and ibuprofen, can reduce inflammation in the heel and arch of your foot.

Physical therapy for plantar fasciitis

Special exercises, such as certain strengthening and stretching exercises, can also help you manage plantar fasciitis pain. Your doctor may refer you to a physical therapist who can guide you through these exercises. 

The therapist might also teach you how to apply athletic tape to your foot for added support. You might benefit from taping your feet each night before bed.

Night splints for plantar fasciitis

A night splint can also help reduce your symptoms by stretching the arch of your foot and your calf while you sleep. The splint stretches the plantar fascia, reducing tightness that fuels inflammation and pain. 

Depending on the frequency and severity of your symptoms, you might need to wear the splint nightly or only during flare-ups.

Custom inserts for plantar fasciitis

Orthotics are shoe inserts that support the arches of your feet to help distribute plantar fasciitis pressure more evenly. 

While off-the-shelf inserts can be helpful in some cases, custom orthotics go above and beyond with a unique design based on the shape of your feet and your specific symptoms.  

Advanced plantar fasciitis treatments

When over-the-counter medications, orthotics, and physical therapy fail to improve your symptoms, you might benefit from a higher level of care. Additional treatments options for plantar fasciitis include:

Get relief from plantar fasciitis pain

Don’t wait to find relief with plantar fasciitis treatments that best suit you or to see if another issue may be fueling your foot pain. Call Arlington/Mansfield Foot & Ankle Centers or request an appointment at one of our two locations with our online booking feature.

 

You Might Also Enjoy...

How Does Tendonitis Affect Your Feet?

If you’re struggling with foot pain, tendonitis or inflammation of the tendons could be the reason. Keep reading to learn how this condition affects your feet and the ways we can help put an end to your pain.

Why Your Feet Will Thank You For Our Medicure

Who doesn’t love being pampered by a pedicure? But these treatments can lead to serious foot problems, like bacterial or fungal infections. Learn how a medical pedicure, or “medicure,” could be the answer to what you — and your feet — need.

How To Keep Your Feet & Ankles Healthy

Your feet and ankles are complex parts of your anatomy, and sadly, they’re prone to many conditions, from ingrown nails to fractures. While you can avoid all injuries, you can reduce your risk by keeping your feet and ankles healthy with these tips.

5 Healthy Foods for Managing Gout

Gout is a form of arthritis that usually causes painful symptoms in your big toe. The good news is that the foods you eat can help you manage this troublesome condition and reduce uncomfortable flare-ups. Here’s what you need to know.

When Can I Exercise After a Sprained Ankle?

There’s no doubt having a sprained ankle is a pain! And if your sprained ankle doesn’t heal properly, it can lead to long-term issues and more pain. That’s why not jumping back into exercise too soon is essential. Here’s what you need to know.