Plantar Fasciitis Specialist

What is plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is a condition characterized by stabbing heel pain. With plantar fasciitis, the length of connective tissue that links the heel and toes (the plantar fascia) grows irritated and may develop small tears. 

As you sleep, your plantar fascia shortens. In the morning, when you take your first couple of steps of the day, the inflamed plantar fascia causes severe heel pain. Throughout the day, your plantar fascia warms up and the pain recedes, but the cycle usually repeats every morning.

What causes plantar fasciitis?

The main cause of plantar fasciitis is strain and pressure. Your plantar fascia absorbs significant shock as you walk or run. Any extra strain or pressure, whether from extra weight, repetitive movements, or biomechanical foot problems, can lead to plantar fasciitis. 

The main risk factors for plantar fasciitis include: 

• Being 40-60 years old
• Regular exercise stressing your heels
• Flat feet
• High arches
• Obesity
• Long periods of standing 

In some cases, it's uncertain why plantar fasciitis happens. Dr. Wachtler explores all possible causes of plantar fasciitis so he can tailor your treatment and help you recover quickly. 

How is plantar fasciitis diagnosed?

Diagnosis includes a physical foot exam. You may also need imaging studies like digital X-rays or MRI to rule out other issues. For example, imaging studies can show problems like bone spurs or Achilles tendon damage, which are two other possible causes of heel pain. 

How is plantar fasciitis treated?

Dr. Wachtler understands how frustrating plantar fasciitis and other types of heel pain can be, so he offers an array of treatment options at Cedar Grove Foot & Ankle Specialists, including:

Orthotics

Custom-molded orthotics can ease the pressure on your plantar fascia to minimize tearing and pain. 

Cortisone injections

Cortisone injections minimize inflammation, which can stop your pain for 3-6 months at a time.

Physical therapy

Physical therapy includes specific stretching exercises that help to lengthen the plantar fascia and reduce pain. 

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections

PRP injections infuse plantar fascia tears with growth factors that stimulate tissue healing and reduce your pain.

Shockwave therapy

Shockwave therapy involves acoustic wave energy. It stimulates your body’s healing processes, helping to restore healthy plantar fascia tissue and ease pain.

In rare cases, if plantar fasciitis doesn’t respond to nonoperative care, Dr. Wachtler can recommend surgical intervention, like plantar fascia release. 

Need plantar fasciitis help? Cedar Grove Foot & Ankle Specialists is here for you. Reach out by phone or through online booking.