Plantar fasciitis can occur when the strong band of tissue that supports the arch of the foot (the plantar fascia) becomes inflamed or irritated. Designed to absorb the intense pressure regularly placed on the foot, the plantar fascia can become torn or inflamed as a result of excess stress, resulting in heel pain and stiffness. The pain most commonly occurs after getting out of bed in the morning or another long period of rest, such as a car ride, and then subsides following a few minutes of walking. In general, the pain is greater after – and not during – exercise. If you’re experiencing the symptoms of plantar fasciitis in Tampa, Clearwater, St. Petersburg, and another nearby FL community, you can consult with the orthopaedic experts at Tampa Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Group.

When you visit the Tampa Orthopaedic sports medicine clinic in Tampa, Florida, we’ll listen as you describe your symptoms and concerns, and then examine your foot for signs of plantar fasciitis, which can include an area of maximum tenderness at the bottom of your foot in front of your heel bone, pain that worsens when you flex your foot and subsides when you point your toes, a high arch, and limited upward motion of your ankle. An X-ray might be recommended to rule out other conditions, such as heel spurs, fractures, and arthritis.

Once properly diagnosed, plantar fasciitis is often responsive to conservative treatments, such as:

• Rest – Sufficient rest might temporarily entail stopping or decreasing activities that worsen the discomfort.
• Ice – Rolling the foot over a frozen bottle of water for 20 minutes, three to four times a day, can be effective.
• Anti-inflammatory medication – Ibuprofen and naproxen can help reduce pain and inflammation.
• Stretching – Plantar fasciitis can be aggravated by tight calf muscles, which can be loosened through targeted stretching. In addition, stretching the plantar fascia itself can be beneficial.
• Supportive footwear – Shoes with thick soles and extra cushioning can help reduce pain while standing and walking.

Surgery is rarely needed to treat plantar fasciitis. In general, surgical intervention is recommended only after 12 months or more of conservative therapy produces inadequate relief.

For additional information about plantar fasciitis, please contact Tampa Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Group today to schedule a consultation with a Board-certified orthopaedic surgeon or sports medicine doctor. Our highly personalized approach to practicing medicine has earned us the trust of patients throughout Tampa, Clearwater, St. Petersburg, and the surrounding FL communities.