Plantar fasciitis is painful inflammation and swelling that affects the thick tissue on the bottom of the foot, primarily the bottom of the heel. This pain is usually at its worst in the morning, but it can dissipate during the course of the day. The pain changes as evening comes, usually manifesting as a dull aching. Sometimes rest can help alleviate the symptoms. Walking for extended periods of time can make the pain worsen, as noted by some patients.
Plantar fascia is the name given to the band of thick and fibrous tissue which acts to keep the foot's bones in place. Cited as one of the most common of complaints in the foot, plantar fasciitis can be caused by several risk factors, including running, foot arch issues, obesity and sudden weight gain. These symptoms occur more commonly in middle-aged men than any other age group. Plantar fasciitis is often linked with heel spurs, but are not the cause of spurs, nor are they caused by spurs. The condition can manifest in feet with or without heel spurs.
Diagnosis of this condition is usually by examination. Sometimes x-rays or other diagnosing equipment like ultrasounds and MRIs may be used to rule out other problems. When using clinical examination, the doctor will check the patient's feet and then observe while the patient stands and walks about. The patient's medical history will be studied, including physical activity and any other foot symptoms. Typical results when testing for this condition include mild swelling and redness. The patient may experience tenderness on the heel's bottom and sometimes swollen legs.
There are several ways of treating plantar fasciitis. The most conservative types of plantar fasciitis treatment are usually the preferred course to take. These treatments include taking anti-inflammatory drugs. Other non-drug treatments include night splints and shoe inserts as well as stretching exercises for the heel. More invasive treatments such as a short leg cast on the affected foot for three weeks or a cast boot can be used if necessary. The use of steroids is sometimes used to treat the condition. The injections are usually quite painful, but can relieve the pain for a greater length of time.
If these methods of treatment are not successful, surgery to ease the tightness in the affected fascia can alleviate the pain and swelling of the fibrous tissue.
Planar fasciitis can be a debilitating condition if ignored. By going to the doctor and exploring symptoms, patients from all walks of life have an excellent chance of relief by utilizing the options available.
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