That Morning Heel Pain? A Guide to Plantar Fasciitis

Do you dread that first step out of bed in the morning?

That sharp, stabbing pain in your heel is a tell-tale sign of plantar fasciitis, one of the most common causes of foot pain we treat. This condition can disrupt everything from your daily walk to your exercise routine, but at Step By Step Family Foot Care, we’ve got the tools and techniques to help you move past it. Read on to learn more!

What is Plantar Fasciitis, and What Are the Risk Factors?

The plantar fascia is a thick, web-like ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot, supporting your arch.

• When this ligament is repeatedly overstretched or overused, tiny tears can develop, leading to inflammation and pain.

This inflammation is known as plantar fasciitis, and several factors can contribute, such as:

• Foot Structure: Individuals with flat feet or high arches are often more susceptible due to how their foot mechanics distribute pressure.
• Occupation & Activities: Jobs that require long hours of standing or walking on hard surfaces can put constant stress on the plantar fascia. Healthcare and restaurant workers, beware!
• Exercise: High-impact activities like running, especially with a sudden increase in intensity, are a common trigger.
• Improper Footwear: Shoes with inadequate support or cushioning fail to protect the plantar fascia from daily stress.
• Weight: Excess body weight can increase the load on your feet, contributing to the problem.

Spotting the Signs: Is It Plantar Fasciitis?

How can you tell if your heel pain is likely plantar fasciitis? Look for these specific symptoms:

• The Classic Morning Pain: The pain is typically most severe with your first few steps after waking up orafter long periods of sitting. This is because the fascia tightens during rest, and stepping down stretches it painfully.
• Pain Location: The discomfort is usually felt on the bottom of the heel, though it can sometimes radiate into the arch.
• Pain Fluctuation: The pain often decreases during the day as the fascia warms up and stretches out, but it may return after extended periods of standing or flare up after exercise.

Note on Treatment

“Walking it off” is not a solution!

• Ignoring the condition can lead to chronic pain and may cause you to alter your gait to avoid discomfort.
• This compensation can lead to secondary problems in your knees, hips, and even your back!

Fortunately, most cases resolve with conservative, non-surgical care. The key is to address the underlying cause of the strain.

• While we’ll explore specific treatments in future posts, know that conservative solutions like stretching, proper footwear, or custom orthoticsmight be tried.
• Advanced MLS Laser treatment is also available, presenting an excellent non-invasive option when conservative methods fail.

We Can Help You!

Plantar fasciitis shouldn’t limit your life! Get in touch with Step By Step Family Foot Care for an accurate diagnosis and start stepping past this problem today.

Step By Step Family Foot Care is here to assist you with your podiatry needs! To make an appointment with Dr. Debra Manheim, call us at (973) 917-3785 or visit our site to schedule an appointment. The staff at our Parsippany office is ready to help.