Carriero Foot and Ankle | Podiatrist | Encinitas, Ca

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain, affecting millions of people around the world.

It’s a painful condition that can disrupt daily activities, but with the right knowledge, treatment, and prevention strategies, you can manage and overcome it.

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

This condition occurs when the plantar fascia—the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot from the heel to the toes—becomes inflamed.

The plantar fascia is designed to support the arch of your foot and absorb the impact of walking and running.

When the fascia is overstretched or strained, tiny tears can occur in the tissue, leading to inflammation and pain.

Causes and Risk Factors

While the exact cause of plantar fasciitis isn’t always clear, several factors can increase the likelihood of developing this painful condition:

Overuse
Foot Structure
Obesity
Age
Tight Achilles Tendon

Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis

The primary symptom of plantar fasciitis is a sharp, stabbing pain in the heel, especially when standing up after a period of rest, such as first thing in the morning. The pain often decreases as you start walking but may return after standing or walking for long periods.

Other symptoms may include:

Pain along the bottom of the foot, near the heel.
Swelling or redness in the heel area.
Pain that worsens after exercise or activity, rather than during it.

Diagnosing Plantar Fasciitis

Our doctors will conduct a physical exam to assess the pain in your heel and check for any signs of inflammation or tenderness along the plantar fascia. An x-ray will likely be recommended as well to rule out other conditions.

In some cases, your doctor may recommend an ultrasound or MRI to rule out other causes of heel pain.

Treatment Options

While plantar fasciitis can be persistent, there are a variety of treatment options available to alleviate pain and promote healing:

Rest and Ice
Stretching Exercises
Orthotics
Supportive Shoes
Anti-Inflammatory Medications
Physical Therapy
Corticosteroid Injections
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injection
Arthrex Interfyl Injection
Surgical Treatment

Conclusion

Plantar fasciitis can be a painful and frustrating condition, but with the right care and treatment, most people can recover fully. If you’re experiencing heel pain, don’t ignore it—early intervention can help speed up recovery and prevent further issues down the line.

Whether it’s through stretching exercises, proper footwear, or medical treatments, there are plenty of ways to manage plantar fasciitis and get back to your normal routine. Contact our office today for evaluation by one of our doctors!