Is plantar fasciitis making it difficult to get through your day? Dr. Katherine Machado at Machado Foot & Ankle Center in Miami, FL, offers customized treatment plans to bring you the relief you deserve.
Treating Plantar Fasciitis
Several things can cause foot pain, but one of the most common is plantar fasciitis. In the guide below, Dr. Machado and the team at Machado Foot & Ankle Center in Miami, FL, explain what this condition is, who is at risk of developing it, and how a podiatrist can help.
Understanding Plantar Fasciitis
You have several components in the feet that support your movement. One is a thick band of tissue along the bottom of the feet that extends from the toes to the heels. It’s called the plantar fascia, and it’s a connective tissue that absorbs the weight and stress that are placed on the feet.
In some cases, the band has to absorb too much pressure and stress, which damages it and causes inflammation. This is known as plantar fasciitis and is associated with heel pain, especially in the mornings. It can also cause swelling and pain while walking.
What Causes Too Much Pressure On the Plantar Fascia?
Many factors can lead to an inflamed plantar fascia, including working on your feet regularly. Athletes who do a great deal of running, jumping, or dancing also suffer from this condition often. Other potential risk factors include:
- Being overweight or obese
- Having flat or high arches
- Pronation
- Gender, as women tend to develop it more often than men
How Can a Podiatrist Help?
Several treatments exist for plantar fasciitis, including performing specific exercises and stretches first thing in the morning before getting out of bed. Your podiatrist can guide you through these exercises.
Custom orthotics are also a valuable component of treatment. They are designed specifically for your foot, which helps take undue pressure off the band and correct foot structure or gait issues. Laser therapy is available to help reduce inflammation.
Additionally, your podiatrist can help you choose the best shoes for your feet, ensuring proper support and comfort. When necessary, medication can be recommended as well as other techniques to help reduce or eliminate your symptoms.
Find freedom from the pain of plantar fasciitis by visiting Dr. Machado at Machado Foot & Ankle Center in Miami, FL. Call (305) 385-9494 to schedule an appointment today.