Fortunately, there are a few treatment options for plantar fasciitis. These options range from anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen or aspirin to more vital treatments that your doctor can prescribe. Unfortunately, these treatments are often short-term, though they may offer some relief. Other treatment options include stretching and cold compresses. If these treatments do not relieve your symptoms, you may want to consider orthotics.
Treatment options for plantar fasciitis
You may consider undergoing physical therapy if you’re experiencing heel pain and discomfort. This method of treating heel pain can help you regain your range of motion and avoid surgery. Although most patients respond well to nonsurgical treatments, a small percentage will require surgical intervention. If this is the case, your foot and ankle surgeon will discuss your treatment options. Surgery is generally riskier than nonsurgical treatment but is an option if other treatments have failed.
Conservative treatment options can help ease the pain and inflammation of plantar fasciitis. The basics of this treatment include RICE, rest, icing, and elevation. These steps improve circulation and decrease inflammation. Other options include orthotic inserts that raise the heel and arch. This helps prevent heel spurs from digging into the heel. In addition, wearing a night splint can help relieve pain in the morning.
Symptoms of plantar fasciitis
A physician will diagnose plantar fasciitis based on symptoms and medical history. He will also examine the foot and run diagnostic tests to rule out other conditions. For example, an X-ray may be necessary to rule out fractures or other structural problems. Although most people with plantar fasciitis do not need treatment, some may need to stop doing specific exercises or modify their lifestyle.
The most common symptom of plantar fasciitis is pain in the morning, which may accompany stiffness or swelling. This pain may occur during standing, walking, or running. The pain usually lessens as the person warms up and walks, but the pain may sometimes worsen toward the end of the day.
Causes of plantar fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is a common problem caused by excessive strain placed on the plantar fascia. This causes micro tears and inflammation in the surrounding tissues of the foot. This condition is commonly associated with long-distance runners and people with jobs requiring standing for long periods. It can also affect pregnant women, who are more likely to develop this condition.
Treatment for plantar fasciitis includes rest and stretching. In addition, using an ice pack can reduce inflammation and pain. Ice packs should be placed on the affected area three to four times daily. Applying ice directly to the skin may cause discomfort, so it is recommended that you wrap the ice pack in a damp towel. Alternatively, you can take a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug.
Home remedies
Plantar fasciitis is a common foot problem due to poor shoe support and abnormal foot mechanics. It affects two million Americans every year. People who do a lot of walking or running are especially susceptible to the condition. Obesity is also a risk factor for developing plantar fasciitis. It’s also essential to avoid long periods of standing since this activity highly stresses the plantar fascia.
One of the best home remedies for plantar fasciitis is applying a cold compress to the heel. It will help reduce swelling and relieve pain. You can use an ice pack or a plastic bottle filled with water to apply the ice compress. Place it over the painful area for a few minutes and repeat it daily. It is important to avoid rubbing the ice directly onto the heel.
Injection therapy
While resting your foot can help relieve the pain associated with plantar fasciitis, injection therapy can also be an excellent option. The injection of corticosteroids into the injured plantar fascia can reduce swelling and ease the pain. This type of treatment can help you return to regular activity quickly. It provides temporary pain relief, usually lasting between three and six months, and can be combined with stretching and icing. Depending on the severity of your condition, you may need multiple injections. In addition, the injections can cause side effects, such as causing the fascia to weaken.
The efficacy of corticosteroid injections for plantar fasciitis has been evaluated in several trials. Two placebo-controlled studies have demonstrated that corticosteroid injections reduced pain and decreased plantar fascia thickness in patients. In addition, these injections can last up to three months, making them an excellent choice for patients suffering from plantar fasciitis.