During movement, an important ligament – the plantar fascia serves as a shock absorber for the weight of each step. The plantar fascia also supports and maintains the foot arch. This is why when it is overly stretched, it can cause pain and inflammation – a condition known as Plantar Fasciitis.

Fortunately, your podiatrist can not only diagnose this condition, but also offer several treatment options to heal your plantar fasciitis.

Custom orthotics devices

Custom orthotics devices are uniquely designed, custom-made shoe inserts to help you find the right balance of support and cushioning. Your podiatrist can help you with orthotics that are customized to your foot to provide appropriate support and alignment.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy for the feet includes various stretches and exercises to strengthen and promote healing of the plantar fascia. In addition, your physical therapist may also use massage therapy and shock wave therapy to increase blood circulation in the area.

Taping, Strapping, and Splints

Taping, strapping, and splinting can provide support to the plantar fascia as well as relieve some of the load being borne by the heel.

Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

NSAIDs, also known as Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs, can help relieve pain and discomfort for patients struggling with mild to moderate plantar fasciitis pain. These drugs can reduce the swelling and inflammation in the strained or torn plantar fascia.

Steroid Injections

If your plantar fasciitis pain does not reduce even with the use of NSAIDs, your podiatrist may prescribe a steroid injection. Steroid injections are administered directly into the site of pain to reduce pain and inflammation. However, your podiatrist will recommend steroid injections for pain relief only if other treatment options fail to provide sufficient relief.

Surgery

Foot and heel surgery are a last resort in Plantar fasciitis treatment. If none of the above treatment procedures are able to relieve the pain and irritation caused by plantar fasciitis, surgery may be recommended. The surgical procedure is known as a plantar fascia release. Surgery involves cutting part of the tendon to remove tension and reduce pain and discomfort. Studies show that about 70-80% patients feel significantly less pain after the surgery.

Stem Cell Injections

PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) and stem cell Injections are regenerative therapy procedures that stimulate natural healing in the foot and ankle. These treatments involve injecting platelet-rich plasma (in PRP therapy) and stem cells (in Stem Cell Therapy) into the injured area of the foot where these cells stimulate cellular regeneration and repair to accelerate the healing of the damaged plantar fascia.

If you are looking for the best foot and ankle specialist for foot ankle surgery in Phoenix, AZ, call Oasis Foot and Ankle Center at 602-993-2700 right away.