Description The plantar fascia ...
Description
The plantar fascia is a fan of dense fibers that is attached to the bottom of the heel bone (calcaneus) and extends forward along the bottom of the foot. The plantar fascia can become irritated where it joins to the heel bone. This causes pain and tenderness. The symptoms can make walking painful and are usually worse in the morning.
Symptoms
Pain in the bottom, front edge of the heel, usually worst in the morning and improving throughout the day, tenderness over the bottom of the foot.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. An X-ray may be done. Extra mineral that has deposited in the plantar fascia where it connects to the heel bone is named a "bone spur".
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Orthopedic Surgery, Pediatrics, Family Practice, Sports Medicine, Podiatry, Foot and Ankle Surgery
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. An X-ray may be done. Extra mineral that has deposited in the plantar fascia where it connects to the heel bone is named a "bone spur".
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Orthopedic Surgery, Pediatrics, Family Practice, Sports Medicine, Podiatry, Foot and Ankle Surgery
Treatment
Conservative treatment is usually successful but may require 6-18 months. Initial treatment consists of: nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications/NSAIDs (ibuprofen/Motrin or Advil, naproxen/Naprosyn), acetaminophen (Tylenol), heel and calf stretching exercises, night splints, shoe inserts. If these modalities fail a steroid injection may be recommended.