Treatments That A Podiatrist May Prescribe For Plantar Fasciitis Relief

If you've been diagnosed with the painful foot condition known as plantar fasciitis, a podiatrist can try different treatments to alleviate your symptoms. Your plantar fasciitis may even go away entirely with the right solution, and delaying treatment will only likely prolong your suffering. Here are some of the most common treatments that podiatrists use to give their patients plantar fasciitis relief.

Orthotics

Plantar fasciitis is often caused by abnormalities of the feet that can put excessive strain on the arches, soles and other foot areas. Orthotics are specially designed shoes that can correct foot problems so that you'll stand on your feet correctly. This type of custom footwear can be especially helpful if your plantar fasciitis is caused by foot problems like pronation, flat feet or high arches.

Nonsteroidal Medication

The pain from plantar fasciitis is often worsened by the inflammation that the condition causes. Nonsteroidal medicine with anti-inflammatory properties may be prescribed to alleviate the inflammation and promote faster healing.

Injectable Treatment

Your pain from plantar fasciitis may be alleviated with an injectable treatment. Your podiatrist can try injecting a steroid medicine into the painful area around the plantar fascia ligament to offer you plantar fasciitis relief, but multiple injections can end up damaging the ligament and are not recommended. If your plantar fasciitis is the result of tissue damage, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, which involves injecting a solution that's made with your own platelets into your feet, may help treat your condition.

Special Exercises

Your podiatrist can recommend some specific exercises that will be part of your plantar fasciitis treatment plan. Toe curls, toe extensions and plantar fascia ligament stretches on a step are among the best exercises for alleviating symptoms. Exercises that strengthen the Achilles muscles in your lower legs may also be recommended to give your foot better support and prevent plantar fasciitis from recurring. Your podiatrist may also refer you to a physical therapist if your condition is severe or you need assistance with performing the exercises. 

Surgery

If all other treatment methods have failed, your podiatrist may advise you to undergo surgery that involves detaching the plantar fascia ligament from the heel bone to stop the pain and other unpleasant symptoms. After the tendon is detached, new connective tissue can grow and help make your plantar fascia ligament longer, which can offer you further relief. This type of surgery has a high success rate but should only be performed if less-invasive treatments have been tried without success.

Plantar fasciitis doesn't have to be a permanent condition, and the right treatment can get you back on your feet so that you can start enjoying a pain-free life again. Your podiatrist will go over your treatment options with you and explain each type in full detail so that you can make the best decisions regarding your care.

For more information about plantar fasciitis relief, contact a podiatrist in your area.


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