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What is plantar fasciitis/heel
spur syndrome?
Plantar
fasciitis is an inflammation of the long band of connective tissue running
from the heel to the ball of the foot. Heel spur syndrome is a bony overgrowth
on the heel bone. Plantar fasciitis and heel spur syndrome affect women
more than men. They can cause the bottom of the heel and arch to become
painful.STATISTICS
- Plantar fasciitis
and heel spur syndrome are the most common causes of plantar heel
pain.
- 73% of patients
with heel pain are diagnosed with either plantar fasciitis or heel
spur syndrome.
- 15% of patients
who see a podiatrist complain of heel pain.
- 90% of those
who suffer from plantar fasciistis or heel spur syndrome respond to
nonsurgical care.
- 83.5% of patients
with plantar fasciitis or heel spur syndrome experience pain with
first steps in the morning.
- Plantar fasciitis
can occur with or without a heel spur present.
CAUSES OF PLANTAR
FASCIITIS
- Stretching
the long band of tissue that connects the heel and the ball of the
foot.
- Muscle imbalance.
- Bone deformity.
- Obesity.
- Trauma.
- Tightness of
the muscles on the back of the leg.
WHAT CAN YOU DO?
- Warm up and
stretch properly before exercise.
- Wear appropriate
shoe gear.
- RICE - rest,
ice, compression, and evaluation.
WHAT WILL A PODIATRIC
PHYSICIAN DO FOR YOU?
- Perform a physical
examination.
- Perform x-ray
evaluation.
- Recommend taping
- Prescribe orthotic
devices.
- Prescribe appropriate
medications.
- Administer
injections.
- Perform surgery
if needed.
Source: APMA |
