Are you wondering if your heel pain could be caused by plantar fasciitis?
If you are dealing with heel pain and are concerned that you might have plantar fasciitis, our Nanuet, NY, podiatrist Dr. Jay Levine can help. Dr. Levine and his team provide comprehensive care to individuals dealing with both acute and chronic forms of plantar fasciitis.
What Are the Signs of Plantar Fasciitis?
While many conditions can cause heel pain, the most common cause is plantar fasciitis, which leads to irritation or inflammation of the plantar fascia. The plantar fascia runs lengthwise along the soles of the feet and supports the arches. Therefore, you may be dealing with plantar fasciitis if you experience heel pain and stiffness at the bottom of the heel that may radiate to the arches of the feet. There may even be swelling around the heel.
Plantar fasciitis-related heel pain usually worsens in the morning when first getting up. This is because the relaxed and constricted fascia stretches out when you move; therefore, those first few steps may result in a stabbing and severe pain that usually eases up as you continue to move around. Exercising, climbing stairs, and other physical activities can also exacerbate your pain.
When Should I Turn to a Podiatrist?
It may be tempting to go about your day or even continue working out despite the pain, but this is a bad idea. Foot pain, particularly any new or persistent pain, should be evaluated by our Nanuet, NY, foot doctor as soon as possible. After all, many issues could cause heel pain, and you might not have plantar fasciitis.
How Is Plantar Fasciitis Treated?
Luckily, plantar fasciitis can often be treated with simple conservative care such as resting, stretching and wearing appropriate footwear that supports the arches of the feet. Dr. Levine may prescribe custom orthotics if you are prone to heel pain. Suppose you are dealing with chronic heel pain that isn’t responding to lifestyle changes and home care. In that case, our team may recommend shockwave therapy, stimulating the body's natural healing response to repair the inflamed or damaged plantar fascia.
If you are dealing with heel pain for the first time, it’s a good idea to turn to our Nanuet, NY, podiatrist Dr. Levine and his team to find out if plantar fasciitis could be the cause. We can provide the treatment plan you need to get back on your feet. Call us today at (845) 623-5933.