Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is a common but painful condition that affects up to 1 in 10 Americans. At High Desert Limb Salvage Institute in San Bernardino, Indio, and Apple Valley, California, wound care specialist Norris Morrison, DPM, uses conservative and minimally invasive treatments to relieve plantar fasciitis pain and encourage mobility. To receive treatment for plantar fasciitis, call High Desert Limb Salvage Institute or book online today. 

What is plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is an overuse injury that causes sharp, shooting heel pain, making walking, exercising, or performing other routine tasks difficult. 

It occurs when your plantar fascia – a band of tissue that runs from your toes to your heel – develops small tears because of general wear. Over time, small tears become inflamed, resulting in mobility issues.

What are the symptoms of plantar fasciitis?

The symptoms of plantar fasciitis include:

• Chronic heel pain
• Heel pain that’s worse after exercise
• A tight Achilles tendon
• A swollen heel
• Poor mobility

As the condition worsens, you might also experience pain that extends into the arch of your foot.

When should I see a specialist about plantar fasciitis?

Make an appointment at High Desert Limb Salvage Institute if you have sharp or intense heel pain that doesn’t improve with at-home treatments, such as ice, rest, and elevation. That’s especially true if the pain occurs alongside redness and swelling or if it affects your mobility.

How is plantar fasciitis diagnosed?

To diagnose plantar fasciitis, your High Desert Limb Salvage Institute provider reviews your medical history and asks about your symptoms, including when the pain started, if it extends into your ankle or the arch of your foot, and whether it’s worse during activities, like exercise.

Next, your provider completes a podiatry exam. They check your heel and ankle for redness, bruising, or swelling and gently press your skin to identify sensitive areas. If your provider suspects another problem, such as a stress fracture or arthritis, they might also order diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays or an MRI.

How is plantar fasciitis treated?

Treatment of plantar fasciitis depends on various factors, including the severity of your symptoms and your general health. High Desert Limb Salvage Institute takes a holistic and conservative approach to treatment whenever possible. Your provider might recommend:

• Physical therapy
• Shock wave therapy
• Gentle stretches
• Ice and rest
• Bracing
• Orthotics

If these treatments don’t ease your symptoms, surgery might be necessary. High Desert Limb Salvage Institute performs both traditional open and minimally invasive plantar fasciitis surgery.

To explore the treatment options for plantar fasciitis, call High Desert Limb Salvage Institute or book online today.