Plantar Fasciitis Treatment in Montgomery, Prattville, & Wetumpka
Heel pain can make even simple activities like walking, standing, or exercising uncomfortable. One of the most common causes of heel pain is plantar fasciitis, a condition involving irritation of the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot and connects the heel bone to the toes.
Plantar fasciitis often develops gradually and may be especially noticeable with the first few steps after getting out of bed or after sitting for an extended period of time. Without appropriate treatment, persistent heel pain can begin to interfere with work, exercise, sports, and everyday activities.
At Southern Orthopaedic Surgeons, foot and ankle specialist Joshua J. Wolfe, DPM evaluates and treats plantar fasciitis and other causes of foot and ankle pain at our Montgomery, Prattville, and Wetumpka locations. If heel pain is keeping you from your normal activities, request an appointment with Dr. Wolfe today or call (334) 613-9000.
What Are the Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis?
The most common symptom of plantar fasciitis is pain near the bottom of the heel. Symptoms can vary from person to person, but patients may experience:
- Sharp or aching heel pain
- Pain with the first steps in the morning
- Increased discomfort after sitting or resting for an extended period
- Heel pain after prolonged standing, walking, running, or exercise
- Tightness or stiffness along the bottom of the foot
Because heel pain can have several possible causes, an evaluation by a foot and ankle specialist can help determine what is contributing to your symptoms.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis can develop when repeated stress places excessive strain on the plantar fascia. Several factors may increase a person’s likelihood of developing the condition, including:
- Spending long periods of time standing or walking
- Running or participating in activities that place repetitive stress on the feet
- Wearing shoes that do not provide adequate support
- Having flat feet or high arches
- Increased stress on the feet related to body weight
- Changes in activity level or exercise intensity
- Age-related changes in the foot
Plantar fasciitis is especially common among people who spend significant amounts of time on their feet, as well as runners and other active individuals.
When Should You See a Specialist for Heel Pain?
Occasional foot soreness may improve with rest, but heel pain that continues, worsens, or repeatedly returns may warrant an evaluation.
Consider seeing a foot and ankle specialist if your heel pain:
- Persists despite rest and changes in activity
- Makes it difficult to walk or stand comfortably
- Interferes with work, exercise, or sports
- Continues to return
- Is accompanied by significant swelling or other concerning symptoms
Seeking an evaluation can also help rule out other conditions that may cause symptoms similar to plantar fasciitis.
Diagnosing Plantar Fasciitis
To diagnose plantar fasciitis, your provider will review your symptoms and medical history and perform a physical examination of your foot and ankle.
In many cases, plantar fasciitis can be identified without advanced imaging. X-rays or other imaging studies may be recommended when another source of heel pain is suspected or additional information is needed.
Other conditions that can cause heel or foot pain may include:
- Heel bone fractures
- Nerve-related conditions, including tarsal tunnel syndrome
- Other foot and ankle injuries or conditions
Identifying the source of the pain is an important first step in developing an appropriate treatment plan.
Plantar Fasciitis Treatment
Treatment for plantar fasciitis depends on the severity and duration of symptoms, the patient’s activity level, and other individual factors.
Many cases can be treated without surgery. Conservative treatment may include:
- Rest or activity modification
- Stretching and exercises
- Regular icing of the painful area
- Supportive footwear
- Temporary bracing, a walking boot, or other forms of support when appropriate
- Medications to help manage pain and inflammation when medically appropriate
Your provider will develop a treatment plan based on the individual patient rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach to heel pain.
When symptoms continue despite appropriate conservative treatment, additional treatment options may be considered. Surgery is generally reserved for persistent cases that have not responded adequately to nonsurgical care.
Meet Our Foot & Ankle Specialist
Joshua J. Wolfe, DPM, is a fellowship-trained, board-certified foot and ankle surgeon who treats a wide range of foot and ankle conditions, from common causes of heel pain to complex injuries and deformities.
His areas of care include:
- Sports injuries involving the foot and ankle
- Foot and ankle arthroscopy
- Evaluation and treatment of heel and foot pain
Whether treatment involves conservative care or surgical intervention, the goal is to reduce pain, improve function, and help patients return to the activities that matter to them.
Plantar Fasciitis Treatment Near You
Southern Orthopaedic Surgeons provides foot and ankle care for patients throughout Central Alabama, with convenient locations in Montgomery, Prattville, and Wetumpka.
If persistent heel pain is making it harder to stay active, work comfortably, or enjoy your normal routine, an evaluation can help identify the cause and determine the appropriate next step.
Schedule an Appointment for Heel Pain
Do not let ongoing heel pain keep you from the activities you enjoy. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Joshua Wolfe for plantar fasciitis or another foot and ankle concern, call (334) 613-9000 or visit our Patient Center to request an appointment.