Introduction
Plantar fasciitis is the most common condition that causes inflammation and pain in the heel. It affects thousands of people worldwide each year. It occurs when the fibrous band of tissues that supports the arch of the foot overstretches.
Early medical intervention is crucial to reduce the risk of chronic heel pain that can obstruct your normal life activities. Schedule an appointment with Regencare Ortho, a specialised clinic offering advanced treatments for musculoskeletal conditions, including plantar fasciitis. We help the patients with regenerative treatment and ensure speedy recovery.
What Is Plantar Fascitis?
Plantar fasciitis is a stabbing heel pain in the plantar fascia of your foot. The plantar fascia is a fibrous band of tissue on the bottom of the foot that connects the heel bone to the toes. This condition arises when tissues become subject to overexertion or overload. It leads to minor wear and tear in the tissues, particularly at the point where the plantar fascia meets the heel bone.
Plantar fasciitis often affects obese patients the most due to their heavy weight. Their extra pounds put pressure on the plantar fascia. Similarly, pregnant women may also experience this painful inflammation. Additionally, individuals with diabetes suffer from this condition, although the exact reason remains unknown.
Physical activities that increase the risk of overstretching the plantar fascia include sports such as running and volleyball, as well as exercises like stair climbing and aerobics. Additionally, some everyday household chores, such as pushing heavy furniture, can increase the risk of this condition. Further, if you are a runner who pushes yourself too suddenly to run longer distances, you are more prone to develop this condition.
Worn or poor-quality shoes can also increase the risk. This is because such shoes do not provide enough arch support or sole flexibility.
Signs and Symptoms
Be aware of the following signs and symptoms of plantar fasciitis:
- Intense heel pain (especially in the morning)
- Pain in your foot arch
- Inflammation around your heel
- Stiffness
- Short walking or running
- A tight Achilles tendon
Often, the heel pain subsides when you start walking around. However, it may return in the late afternoon or evening. It is vital to receive treatment in the initial stage. Otherwise, the delay in treatment can lead to serious consequences.
Diagnosis at Regencare Ortho
At Regencare Ortho, our expert doctor will diagnose the plantar fasciitis. They will ask you whether you feel intense heel pain when taking your first step, especially in the morning. Additionally, they will inquire about your physical activities and whether you have made any recent changes to your exercise routine.
Often, doctors diagnose plantar fasciitis with a physical examination. They can also consider your healthy history and the symptoms you experience. By lightly pressing on your plantar fascia, they determine the intensity of your pain.
Typically, your doctor will not require any imaging tests to diagnose plantar fasciitis. However, if the doctor suspects another cause of the heel pain, they may recommend that you undergo an ultrasound, MRI, or X-ray. Based on the reports, they will rule out other conditions and begin effective regenerative treatment.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options at Regencare Ortho
At Regencare Ortho, your doctor will recommend non-surgical treatment options tailored to your unique health profile, age, physical activity level, and other relevant factors. With our extensive experience, we have helped thousands of patients through our regenerative treatment.
Take a look at the following most popular treatments for Plantar Fasciitis:
- Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy: At Regencare Ortho, our experienced doctors provide PRP therapy to patients. They typically inject your platelets into the plantar fascia to promote healing and regeneration. This regenerative therapy distinguishes our South Indian Clinic across the country.
- Over-the-counter Medications: Depending on the severity of the condition, your doctor may recommend taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) medications, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen, to reduce pain and swelling. However, it is not advisable to take these over-the-counter medications for more than 10 days without consulting a doctor.
- Corticosteroids: These are anti-inflammatory medicines. Your doctor may inject it into the plantar fascia.
- Shockwave Therapy: Your doctor can apply concentrated acoustic waves to the affected area to increase the blood supply.
- Massaging and stretching: Your physical therapist will assist you by stretching or massaging your foot. You should learn these techniques to promote a speedy recovery.
- Apply Ice Treatment: Use a frozen water bottle wrapped in a towel to gently roll it over the affected area for 10-15 minutes, twice a day. This will help alleviate the symptoms of plantar fasciitis.
- Take Enough Rest: Rest is essential for recovery and treatment of plantar fasciitis. So, take a break from sports or other physical activities.
- Footwear Recommendations: At Regencare Ortho, our doctors recommend avoiding flip-flop shoes and sandals. They may suggest you wear shoes that come with built-in arch support.
Why Choose Regencare Ortho for Plantar Fasciitis?
Since its inception in 2017, Regencare Ortho has become a renowned wellness center for patients with plantar fasciitis and other musculoskeletal conditions in South India. Here, we emphasise treating patients with non-surgical methods, such as PRP treatment, to ensure optimal outcomes. Our approach to regenerative medicine and therapy is a key factor in our growing popularity. We not only address the symptoms of diseases but also prioritise the patient’s holistic well-being. Therefore, our team of researchers is continuously working to develop regenerative medicines. This way, we make healthcare more affordable and the healing process smoother..
