People visit a foot and ankle clinic in Joliet for many reasons; they may have an ingrown toenail, suffer from bunions, corns or calluses and in many cases sports related injuries such as sprains and fractures. One of the more common problems is pain directly under the heel which tends to improve once you get up from sitting or resting and begin to walk around. This usually is the symptom of plantar fasciitis, a very painful condition that is caused by inflammation of the central ligament running the length of the bottom of the foot from the ball to the heel.
The primary symptom is heel pain in Joliet when you walk, it typically occurs when you first get out of bed in the morning when you first place your foot on the floor. The reason it is painful at this time is the fact that you are stretching the plantar fascia. The pain tends to lessen as you walk around and stretch this ligament however, it will usually reoccur after you rise from sitting or other times when you rest. There is rarely any pain while sleeping as the plantar fascia relaxes and shortens.
What causes the condition?
The podiatrists working in a foot and ankle clinic in Joliet see the condition frequently and they know there are several common causes which include wearing shoes that do not have proper arch support, an increase in weight, an increase in the amount time spent standing or walking as well as beginning a new exercise routine without proper training.
High heel shoes and western style boots are a major contributor because the tendon tissue on the bottom of the foot can shorten; this tissue is the plantar fascia. People who run are also prone to the condition especially when they increase the duration of their run or the distance without proper training. Running shoes that are not replaced often enough can also irritate this ligament as will a change in the running surface.
Treatment:
A foot and ankle clinic in Joliet will suggest that you get plenty of rest and will often prescribe an anti-inflammatory drug. Often the podiatrist will provide a specially molded arch support; these supports are particularly helpful to patients with high arches or flat feet. If these treatments do not work then it may be necessary to undergo physical therapy, stretching the plantar fascia and strengthening the lower leg and ankle to better stabilize the foot.
Like all foot and ankle problems it is better to prevent them than it is to deal with them. In the case of plantar fasciitis always wear shoes that fit your foot and are well made.
Suburban Foot & Ankle Associates is a foot and ankle clinic in Joliet that can deal with all problems associated with the feet including but certainly not limited to plantar fasciitis.
