Receive Plantar Fasciitis Treatment From a Foot & Ankle Specialist in Arlington, VA
A common cause of heel pain, plantar fasciitis is a repetitive strain injury that occurs when the plantar fascia—a thick band of tissue that spans the bottom of the foot and connects the heel bone to the toes—becomes irritated or inflamed. The resulting pain can impede mobility, so it’s important to seek prompt treatment. Additionally, if an inflamed plantar fascia is further strained through continued activity, micro-tears can form and lead to a more serious injury. While anyone can develop plantar fasciitis, this condition is particularly common among people who spend a significant amount of time on their feet, such as nurses, servers, dancers and runners.
If you’re experiencing heel pain, you can consult with Dr. Matthew Buchanan, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and foot and ankle specialist who practices at Nirschl Orthopaedic Center in Arlington, Virginia. Dr. Buchanan can sometimes diagnose plantar fasciitis based on a physical examination alone. However, he may order an X-ray, which can be performed on site, to rule out other issues such as a stress fracture or bone spur. After Dr. Buchanan confirms your diagnosis, he will suggest an appropriate treatment plan to help you get back on your feet as quickly as possible.
What Does Plantar Fasciitis Treatment Involve?
Conservative therapies are often effective for relieving the stabbing foot pain that is frequently associated with plantar fasciitis. A key component of treatment is rest, which includes avoiding any movements and activities that contribute to the pain. To improve your comfort as your injury heals, Dr. Buchanan may also suggest:
- An over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)
- Ice pack applications
- A custom orthotic
- A walking boot
- A night splint
- Physical therapy, such as a regimen of targeted stretches
Even if your heel pain is mild and tolerable, you should still have it evaluated sooner rather than later. If left untreated, plantar fasciitis can cause gait changes, which can lead to future problems. For instance, if you limp to reduce the strain on your injured plantar fascia, you could potentially overburden your knee, hip or spine.
If heel pain is limiting your daily activities, contact Nirschl Orthopaedic Center today to request an appointment with Dr. Buchanan at our state-of-the-art sports medicine center in Arlington, VA.