What is plantar fascitis?
Plantar fascitis is a condition of gradual onset that is most often diagnosed in middle-aged patients who stand for extended periods of time, have high arches and are overweight. The patient will have tenderness over the inside of heel, and on rare occasions may experience localized swelling of the heel area. Various treatments for plantar fascitis include a decrease in high-impact activities, non-steriodal anti-inflammatory medications, stretching exercises, heel cushions, and appropriate shoe wear. The use of anti-inflammatory medications helps to decrease inflammation in the heel area, as well as, relieve pain. The purpose of heel cushions is to reduce the impact load on the heel. In extreme cases where plantar fascitis is interfering with the patient’s qualify of life after six months to one year of conservative treatment, surgery is indicated.
