If you’re experiencing lasting or recurrent heel pain, there’s a good chance you’re dealing with plantar fasciitis. In fact, plantar fasciitis is the leading cause of such pain.
Still, there are other causes such as Achilles tendonitis, bone spurs, bone bruises, and stress fractures. Determining the cause of your heel pain is crucial for ensuring proper treatment and lasting relief.
At Oexeman Foot and Ankle, PLLC, in Chicago, Illinois, Dr. Stephanie Oexeman and her team diagnose and treat heel pain to help you get back on your feet with ease.
Here’s a closer look at plantar fasciitis, including seven signs it’s at the root of your heel pain.
Plantar fasciitis usually develops when the band of tissue connecting your heel bone and toes, or fascia, gets repeatedly stretched or torn. As this happens, tiny tears can form in the fascia, leading to inflammation. In some cases, there’s no clear cause behind plantar fasciitis.
Anyone can experience plantar fasciitis, but your risk is heightened if:
Carrying excess weight may also raise your risk for plantar fasciitis, especially if you’re obese or gain more than 15 pounds within a few months.
Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain, but not the only one. Signs that your pain stems from this condition include:
You might also find that exercise or movement brings temporary relief, followed by more intense pain once you stop.
If Dr. Oexeman diagnoses you with plantar fasciitis, she may recommend a range of treatments. Many people recover within several months of conservative treatment such as special stretches, modified activities, and icing the painful area.
Your treatment might also include:
If your symptoms persist several months later, you may be a good candidate for steroid injections, shock wave therapy, ultrasonic tissue repair, or surgery to detach your plantar fascia from your heel bone. Dr. Oexeman performs both traditional surgeries and minimally invasive procedures for heel pain relief.
To learn more about plantar fasciitis or to get the heel pain treatment you need, call our office or book an appointment online today.