Plantar fasciitis is a painful condition in which the tissue connecting the heel to the toes becomes inflamed. There are several stretches and exercises to manage the discomfort of this ailment. To begin, place the balls of your feet on the edge of a step, with a towel under your toes. With your weight on one foot only, move your heel towards the ground, and then up to the ceiling. You should perform this routine on both feet. The next exercise requires a chair. While sitting, alternate between lifting your toes up, and then curling them in as tightly as possible. The subsequent stretch also takes place while sitting in a chair. Grab both of your big toes with your corresponding hands, and lift them up as high as possible. Once you are in this position, press your toes against your hands, in order to feel resistance. Keep in mind to perform this stretch to your level of comfort. The final exercise takes place with one leg in a kneeling position, and the other foot flat in front of you. Shift your knee past your toes, and then press the ball of your foot into the floor. Next, in this same position, raise the ball of your foot towards your own body. Be sure to repeat this on both sides. If these stretches are not helpful in relieving your plantar fasciitis pain, consult with a podiatrist.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists  from Family Foot Care. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Valatie and Albany, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.