Plantar Fasciitis is Painful but Treatable
Have you heard of plantar fasciitis? This common foot ailment is a painful inflammation of the soft tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot from the heel to the toes. Plantar fasciitis affects as many as one in ten people in their lifetimes. Although it affects all age groups, sexes, and ethnicities, there is a higher prevalence in women between 40 and 60 years of age. Because it is so common, many people think plantar fasciitis is both unavoidable and untreatable. You can take steps to reduce your risk and, if board-certified podiatrists like Anne Arundel County foot doctors Dr. James M. McKee and Dr. Adam Weaver diagnose you with plantar fasciitis, they will have treatment options to help.
How Can I Reduce My Risk of Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis strikes without warning, but there are things you can do to increase your chances of staying healthy. Here are some suggestions from our doctors:
Maintaining a healthy weight will protect feet and ankles from numerous afflictions. Eat a well-balanced diet rooted in lean protein, whole grains, colorful fruits, and vegetables.
Wear sensible comfortable shoes. Rigid high heel shoes contribute to a variety of foot deformities such as bunions and hammertoes. High heel shoes also make you vulnerable to plantar fasciitis.
Alternate high-impact start-and-stop athletic activities like tennis or basketball with lower-impact options like swimming and bicycling.
Stretch before and after exercise and even when you’re just watching television at home. Stretching helps keep soft tissues supple and healthy.
What If I Have Plantar Fasciitis?
If your podiatrist diagnoses plantar fasciitis, numerous treatment options will be discussed, including physical therapy, over-the-counter and prescription medications for pain and inflammation, and custom orthotics, shoe inserts designed to provide cushioning and support. Surgery is usually only indicated in severe cases.
Are you worried about heel pain, or do you have any other concerns about the health and wellness of your feet, ankles, or lower legs? Call the friendly Podiatry Group of Annapolis, P.A. staff at 410-224-4448 or click here to schedule a convenient appointment with James M. McKee, DPM, FACFAS, and Adam Weaver, DPM, in our office located at 139 Old Solomons Island Road, Annapolis, MD today. Our doctors will conduct a thorough examination, arrive at a specific and accurate diagnosis, then work with you to create an effective and individualized plan for treatment and ongoing care.