Heel pain can put a damper on even the brightest of days. Unfortunately, the number one cause of heel pain, plantar fasciitis, affects 
many people a year. Determining you suffer from plantar fasciitis may be tricky without the right help. Luckily, Dr. Jay Levine in Rockland County, NY can help you pinpoint the cause of your foot pain and develop the most effective treatment plan possible to get you back on your feet.
What is plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is a condition of the foot which causes pain on the bottom of the heel. The plantar fascia is a ligament which runs from the back of your foot, underneath the length of your foot and ends at the front of your foot. When the ligament becomes inflamed, it causes plantar fasciitis. This extremely common condition often comes from normal daily wear and tear, but can also result from underlying conditions or injury.
The Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis
The main symptom of plantar fasciitis is pain in the bottom, middle part of the foot. Stiffness in this area is also common. While some patients complain of sharp, sudden pains, others report their pain as dull or throbbing. Normally, the pain gets worse over long periods of time. Additionally, the pain is often worst in the morning while taking the first steps of the day or after a period of heavy activity.
Plantar Fasciitis Treatment in Rockland County
Before creating your treatment plan, your podiatrist must first determine that you suffer from plantar fasciitis. A physical examination helps your doctor pinpoint any tenderness and pain to eliminate the chance that your pain comes from a different condition. Treatment for plantar fasciitis begins conservatively with staying off of your feet and icing the affected foot for 15 minutes several times a day. You can also try taking over-the-counter pain relievers or anti-inflammatories to reduce pain and swelling.
Your podiatrist may recommend prescription orthotics to wear inside of your shoes. Administering corticosteroid injections directly into the ligament has proven successful in relieving pain. Physical therapy and shockwave therapy can also help reduce pain and swelling.
For more information on plantar fasciitis treatments in the Rockland County, NY area, please contact Dr. Levine. Call (845) 623-5933 to schedule your appointment with Dr. Levine today!