DOES PLANTAR FASCIITIS AFFECT QUALITY OF LIFE?
Plantar fasciitis can make everyday activities such as walking, working and exercising uncomfortable. Persistent heel pain can affect your mobility and quality of life.
A study published in 2018 evaluated 100 adults with plantar fasciitis. Women reported worse foot-pain and footwear scores than men, but the difference in foot function was not statistically significant. These findings describe one group of patients; anyone with persistent heel pain deserves an individualized assessment.
WHAT IS PLANTAR FASCIITIS?
The plantar fascia is a strong band of tissue along the bottom of your foot that supports the arch. Repeated strain can irritate and damage this tissue, causing pain near the heel. Pain is often most noticeable with the first steps in the morning or after sitting, and may return after prolonged standing or activity.
A podiatrist can assess your symptoms and check for other causes of heel pain before recommending treatment.
HOW IS PLANTAR FASCIITIS TREATED?
Most people improve with nonsurgical care, although recovery can take several months. Treatment is tailored to your symptoms and may include:
Adjusting activities that aggravate pain and choosing lower-impact exercise.
Regular plantar fascia and calf stretches, plus progressive foot and ankle strengthening.
Supportive footwear, short-term taping and, when helpful, prefabricated or custom orthotics used alongside exercise.
Physical therapy and a night splint if first-step morning pain persists.
Ice for temporary comfort and pain-relief medication when appropriate for your medical history.
CAN A STEROID INJECTION HELP?
A corticosteroid injection can be a viable option for relieving plantar fasciitis pain. It targets pain relief rather than curing the underlying condition, and the degree and duration of relief vary.
Your podiatrist may consider an injection when pain persists despite other treatment, after assessing the cause of your heel pain and your individual risks. Injections are not a routine first treatment, and evidence of benefit is mixed, particularly for heel pain without an inflammatory cause.
Potential risks include a tear of the plantar fascia, thinning of the heel’s cushioning fat pad, skin changes, infection and a temporary pain flare. Repeated injections require particular caution. Steroids can temporarily raise blood sugar, especially in people with diabetes. Your podiatrist can discuss whether an injection is appropriate and explain activity restrictions and follow-up care.
WHAT IF HEEL PAIN CONTINUES?
Persistent symptoms should prompt a reassessment of the diagnosis and treatment plan. Other options, such as shockwave therapy, may be considered. Surgery is generally reserved for symptoms that continue despite a prolonged course of nonsurgical care.
If heel pain is interfering with your daily activities, schedule an evaluation to discuss a treatment plan that fits your needs.
River Podiatry, located in Pearl River NY, close to the Bergen County border, we provide individualized, comprehensive, evaluation and treatment of patients with podiatric issues. The practice specializes in foot surgery and the treatment of foot pain. Expect the best possible care utilizing the most modern techniques.