Symptoms and Causes:
The symptoms of plantar fasciitis typically include:
- Heel pain felt in the mornings or after prolonged periods of sitting
- Discomfort or burning sensation in the sole of the foot
- Intense pain in the heel, especially when walking or running
- Stiffness or tension in the arch of the foot
These symptoms arise due to microtraumas caused by repetitive strain on the plantar fascia (the connective tissue in the sole of the foot). Factors such as overloading, flat feet, improper footwear selection, and inadequate strengthening of the foot muscles play a role in the development of plantar fasciitis.
Plantar fasciitis is a common condition that causes severe pain in the sole of the foot. In this article, we will provide information about the symptoms, diagnostic methods, and treatment options for plantar fasciitis.
Diagnostic Methods:
Accurate diagnosis of plantar fasciitis is important. The following methods are used in the diagnostic process:
- Patient history: Your doctor may ask you questions to understand your symptoms and activity habits.
- Physical examination: The doctor will examine your heel area to identify painful spots and tenderness.
- Imaging techniques: Imaging tests such as X-ray or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can be used to detect the presence of plantar fasciitis or other foot problems.
Treatment Methods:
Plantar fasciitis can be treated, and the relief of symptoms is possible. Here are some treatment options:
– Rest and activity modifications: Avoiding excessive activities and allowing adequate rest periods for your feet are important to alleviate plantar fasciitis symptoms.
– Shoe selection and orthotic use: Wearing shoes that provide proper support and using supportive orthotic inserts, when needed, can reduce pain.
– Cold therapy and massage: Applying cold packs to the foot area can help alleviate pain. Additionally, massage and stretching exercises can provide relief.
– Physical therapy and exercises: Exercises performed under the guidance of a physical therapist can strengthen foot muscles and improve flexibility.
– Medications: Your doctor may recommend medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to relieve pain.
– Injection therapies: Corticosteroid or Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) injections can be used to reduce pain and promote healing.
– Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT): This treatment method that uses high-energy sound waves can be effective in the treatment of plantar fasciitis.
– Surgical intervention: Although rarely used, surgical intervention may be necessary if other treatment methods fail. In such cases, surgical procedures such as endoscopic fasciotomy or fascia release with removal of the spur may be preferred.
Prevention and Protection:
To prevent plantar fasciitis, you can take the following precautions:
– Shoe selection: Opt for shoes that fit well and provide good support for your feet.
– Use of supportive orthotics: Balancing foot load by using orthotic inserts that support your arch is beneficial.
– Strengthening foot muscles: Regularly performing exercises that strengthen and stretch your foot muscles is important.
– Proper foot care for activities: Resting your feet before and after activities, applying cold therapy, and massaging can help alleviate pain.
Conclusion:
Plantar fasciitis is a condition that causes pain in the sole of the foot. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment methods can help alleviate symptoms and promote healing. By consulting our clinic, you can assess the right treatment options and continue to lead an active life.
