Even though she’s been struggling with an injured foot, Chastity Stewart will still be making her presence at the NCAA national meet in Eugene, Oregon. “I think I have a shot,” Stewart says. “I didn’t think I would be here getting ready for nationals or run as fast as I did at conference or regionals. I want to surprise myself as well as everyone else and pull it out.”
About a month ago, Stewart felt a sharp pain in her foot. To attempt to alleviate the pain, Stewart tried to roll her foot over a round object to massage the muscles and tissues. Unfortunately, Stewart’s pain continued, and eventually she went to UNT’s trainers who would treat her for plantar fasciitis. Despite her ordeal, Stewart will still be racing, even if it is painful.
Plantar fasciitis can be extremely painful. If you suffer from heel pain, see podiatrist Dr. Edward Lang of New Orleans Podiatry Associates. Dr. Lang can treat your foot and ankle needs.
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis refers to heel and arch pain caused by an inflammation of the connective tissues on the bottom of the foot.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
- Ill-fitting shoes
- Weight change
- Excessive running
- Non-supportive shoes
- Overpronation
How Can It Be Treated?
- Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices.
- Shockwave therapy – sends sound waves to the areas where pain is experience. Requires multiple sessions. This is used for very persistent cases of plantar fasciitis.
- Ultrasound-guided technique with steroid injections into the plantar fascia. This is from a relatively new and small study, but was shown to be effective in most cases treated.
New Studies on Treatment
According to groundbreaking treatment option studies, Luca M. Sconfienza, M.D. says that ultrasound with steroid injections was effective in over 95% of cases that involve plantar fasciitis. This process involves anesthesia and is a single process, out-patient treatment that was discovered to be highly effective. Luca M. Sconfienza M.D. presented her study at an annual meeting for the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA).
If you have any questions feel free to contact one of our offices in New Orleans, LA or Metairie, LA. We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.
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