Plantar fasciitis is a common painful foot condition that involves hypersensitive micro-tears within the ailing overused supporting ligament at the bottom of the foot. The plantar fascia or ligament is a layer of tough fibrous tissue that runs from the heel bone down to the toes to resist progressive arch flattening due to excessive pronation. Plantar fasciitis is most often seen in middle-aged men and women, but can be found in all age groups. The classic symptoms include heel pain that is usually most severe at first step in the morning. Pain often subsides quite quickly, but then returns after prolonged standing or walking. This limiting plantar fasciitis may be mistaken for, or complicated with, a nerve, with a joint, bone or tendon condition; this is why a thourough clinical and radiological examination is mandatory to rule out or detect any associated condition(s) in order to set up the most efficient treatment protocol.

Pierre Dupont Doctor of Podiatric Medicine | chiropodist | Foot Specialist says that the most effective protocol in reducing this condition is to address the root-cause first. Podiatric custom-made orthotic devices, based on the findings of the exam and of the X-rays, will help in maintaining proper foot alignment (when worn inside good supportive shoes) so normal force transfer will take place in the ailing plantar ligament. The plantar fascia will then repair itself since it now receives a reasonable amount of stretching stimulation at each step thanks to the proper foot alignment provided by the podiatric orthotics. Complementary high-power laser, ultrasound or shock-wave treatment protocol(s) may be indicated in severe or chronic conditions to provide additional energy at the cellular level to boost and speed up healing as well as getting rid of the pain faster. As homework, the doctor of podiatric medicine may prescribe specific stretching exercise(s), switching to non-weight bearing activities or reducing activity level, icing applications, night splint therapy, taping, padding.

About Pierre Dupont

Pierre Dupont Doctor of Podiatric Medicine | chiropodist | Foot Specialist is an experienced professional who utilizes his knowledge and expertise to provide the most appropriate solutions to severe or unresponsive foot issues being faced by his patients.

N.B. A DPM or Doctor of Podiatric Medicine cannot register anymore as a podiatrist in Ontario due to a «podiatric cap» in force since 1993. The only Doctors of Podiatric Medicine members registered as podiatrists did so before 1993 and had been grandfathered podiatrist thereafter. The College of Podiatrists and Chiropodists of Ontario (College) is the professional regulatory body for both Chiropodists and Podiatrists. The College petitioned the Minister for a referral to the Health Professions Regulatory Advisory Council (HPRAC) with the objective of removing the podiatric cap and moving to a Podiatry model of footcare similar to the one in force elsewhere in North America, Australia and in many European Countries. The review by the HPRAC of the Chiropody and Podiatry professions has been ordered by the Minister of Health and Long-Term Care and is now commencing. This why Pierre Dupont D.P.M. / Doctor of Podiatric Medicine, had been registered as a chiropodist in Ontario although he could have been eligible to be registered as a podiatrist in other provinces or jurisdictions. This explains why the following designations or titles as Pierre Dupont podiatrist, Dr. Pierre Dupont podiatrist, Dr Pierre Dupont DPM, Dr Pierre Dupont podiatre, Pierre Dupont podiatre or Pierre Dupont podiatrist Ottawa do not figure among correct appellations according to regulations in force.

Summary: In Ontario, both podiatrists and chiropodists, both Doctors of Podiatric Medicine or DPM’s – diplomates from a 4-year University program in Podiatric Medicine - and holders of a college Degree in Chiropody or DCh’s - awarded after a 3-year program at the Michener Institute - are foot specialists who assess and treat foot conditions within their respective scope of practice.