Plantar fasciitis (PF) is a common condition that can cause excruciating pain in your heel or foot. Dr. Peter Sikora, a podiatrist in Stamford, CT treats plantar fasciitis frequently. He will ensure that all your questions are answered and give you the best care of your feet so you can return to all the activities you love without being limited by pain. Below are common questions we receive about plantar fasciitis.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

The plantar fascia is a thick band of connective tissue that runs along the sole of your foot. Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia becomes inflamed. It is most common among people who spend a lot of time on their feet.

What Causes PF?

Plantar fasciitis is considered an overuse injury resulting from excessive strain. This comes from greater loads placed on the foot than the plantar fascia can withstand and provide support for. However, other factors can lead to plantar fasciitis. These are particularly related to the mechanics and anatomy of the foot.

No direct genetic link exists for PF, but what can be passed on from parent to child are structural abnormalities in the foot or other parts of the body. Some additional causes and risk factors may be:

• Sudden increases in activity levels
• Age - decades of stress placed on the foot without adequate support may cause PF. 
• Repetitive high-impact activity
• Regularly walking or running on hard surfaces
• Footwear that does not provide enough support
• Tight calf muscles
• Obesity
• Pregnancy
• Abnormally high arches of your feet

What Are the Symptoms of PF?

Some symptoms of PF are:

• A hallmark symptom is an intense pain when taking your first step out of bed.
• Heel pain
• Pain when you take a step after having been sitting for a while
• Swelling of the heel
• Pain that comes after exercise

How Is It Treated and What Are Some Things I Can Do To Manage PF?

Treatment of this condition may involve multiple factors, such as.

• Stretching and strengthening exercises targeted at the foot and ankle complex are key. Our podiatrist can show these to you or recommend a physical therapist in Stamford, CT for plantar fasciitis treatment.
• Stretch your calf and foot before getting out of bed. Place a towel or belt next to your bed. After waking and before taking your first step, wrap the belt/towel around your forefoot. Straighten the knee, and pull back. Hold the stretch for 20 seconds, then release. Repeat this stretch 5 times.
• Wearing supportive shoes
• Wearing a splint at night
• Custom orthotics
• NSAIDs like Ibuprofen to help with pain and swelling
• Losing weight
• Avoiding aggravating activities.

Some cases will need more involved treatment, such as cortisone injections to aid healing. Surgery is rarely recommended for PF.

Contact Us

Do you still have questions? Get them answered and treat your plantar fasciitis in Stamford, CT. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Sikora by calling (203) 614-8185.