Plantar Fasciitis Treatment in Loveland, Colorado
Understanding Plantar Fasciitis: The Leading Cause of Heel Pain
Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of heel pain, affecting millions each year. Plantar fasciitis occurs in about 10% of the general population, with 83% of these patients being active working adults between 25 and 65 years.
Is plantar heel pain affecting your ability to run and stay active? You are not alone. Plantar fasciitis accounts for about 10% of runner-related injuries and 11% to 15% of all foot symptoms requiring professional medical care.
Plantar heel pain involves the inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot and connects your heel bone to your toes. Typically, it causes a sharp, stabbing pain that usually occurs with your very first steps in the morning. As you get up and move more, the pain normally decreases, but it might return after long periods of standing or when you stand up after sitting.
Key Signs and Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis
- Pain in the foot when you take your first steps after waking up or after being inactive for a while.
- Heel pain when walking, especially after an extended period of rest.
- Swelling or redness in the heel area.
- Tenderness on the bottom of your foot towards the heel.
- Pain that worsens after exercise, not during it.
How Is Heel Pain Treated?
At Northern Colorado Spine and Sport, we take a comprehensive approach to treat plantar fasciitis. Our methods focus on relieving pain, reducing inflammation, restoring strength and flexibility, and preventing future issues. Treatment options may include:
- Physical Therapy: Customized exercises designed to stretch the ankle and calf muscle and to strengthen lower leg muscles, specifically the small foot muscles, to help alleviate your heel pain.
- Advanced Manual Therapy: Techniques such as soft tissue mobilization, dry needling and joint mobilizations to help alleviate tension and pain in the heel.
- Supportive Treatments: Recommendations for supportive shoes and inserts that help reduce pain by distributing pressure more evenly when you walk.
- Activity Modifications/Recommendations: Plantar heel pain can wreak havoc on your active life style. Our therapist will help you come up with an activity plan to keep you active while also protecting the heel, allowing your plantar pain to properly recover!
Frequently Asked Questions About Plantar Heel Pain
- What causes plantar fasciitis?
- Overuse, such as from long-distance running, heavy loads on the foot, or new activity patterns can trigger plantar fasciitis. Additionally, it's more common in individuals who are overweight, those with foot arch issues, either overly flat feet or high arches, and those who spend a lot of time on their feet. Poor mobility in the legs, foot and ankle can contribute to heel pain as well.
- How long does it take to recover from plantar fasciitis?
- Recovery time varies based on the treatment's effectiveness and the severity of the condition, ranging from a few months to a year. Adhering to the treatment plan and following preventive measures are crucial for recovery. Heel pain has be known to last a long time, the sooner you can see a physical therapists for treatment the higher your chances are for a speedy recovery.
- Can I prevent plantar fasciitis from recurring?
- Yes, by maintaining a healthy weight, wearing appropriate footwear, and continuing with foot exercises, you can prevent the recurrence of plantar fasciitis.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Don't let heel pain hold you back from the activities you love. Contact Northern Colorado Spine and Sport today to schedule a consultation. Our dedicated team is ready to help you step pain-free into a healthier life!
