Find Relief with a Plantar Fasciitis Doctor at West Coast Podiatry

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Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain, affecting approximately 2 million people in the United States each year (Riddle et al., 2003). If you’re experiencing persistent foot pain, seeking help from a plantar fasciitis doctor at West Coast Podiatry can help you find relief and get back to your daily activities pain-free.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of connective tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, becomes inflamed. This tissue plays a crucial role in supporting the arch and absorbing shock, but repetitive strain can cause small tears, leading to pain and stiffness (Lemont et al., 2003).

Causes of Plantar Fasciitis

Several factors contribute to the development of plantar fasciitis, including:

Overuse and High Impact Activities – Runners, walkers, and individuals who spend a lot of time on their feet are more prone to plantar fasciitis due to repetitive stress on the foot (Cutts et al., 2012).
Poor Footwear – Wearing unsupportive shoes, such as flip-flops or worn-out sneakers, can put extra strain on the plantar fascia.
Flat Feet or High Arches – Abnormal foot mechanics can lead to uneven weight distribution, increasing tension in the plantar fascia.
Obesity – Excess body weight places additional stress on the feet, increasing the risk of developing plantar fasciitis (Riddle et al., 2003).
Tight Achilles Tendon or Calf Muscles – Limited flexibility in the lower leg can pull on the plantar fascia, contributing to inflammation.

Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis

The most common symptom of plantar fasciitis is heel pain, which is often most severe in the morning when first stepping out of bed. Other symptoms include:

Sharp, stabbing pain in the bottom of the heel
Pain that worsens after prolonged standing or activity
Stiffness and tenderness in the arch of the foot
Increased discomfort after exercise (but not usually during it)

At-Home Remedies Recommended by West Coast Podiatry

If you’re experiencing heel pain, there are several at-home treatments our plantar fasciitis doctors recommend to help manage symptoms before seeking professional care:

Rest and Ice Therapy – Avoid activities that exacerbate pain and apply ice to the affected area for 15-20 minutes several times a day to reduce inflammation (Goff & Crawford, 2011).
Stretching Exercises – Stretching the Achilles tendon and plantar fascia can help alleviate tightness. Try calf stretches, towel stretches, and rolling a frozen water bottle under your foot.
Supportive Footwear – Wear shoes with good arch support and cushioning. Avoid flat, unsupportive shoes or walking barefoot on hard surfaces.
Orthotic Inserts – We have several orthotic inserts available at West Coast Podiatry to help with your plantar fasciitis. (Rome et al., 2005).
Night Splints – Wearing a night splint can keep the plantar fascia stretched overnight, reducing morning pain.

Advanced Treatment Options at West Coast Podiatry

If at-home remedies don’t provide sufficient relief, it’s time to visit a plantar fasciitis doctor at West Coast Podiatry. We offer a variety of advanced treatment options, including:

Custom Orthotics – We provide personalized orthotic solutions designed to correct foot mechanics and alleviate pressure on the plantar fascia.
Physical Therapy – Targeted stretching and strengthening exercises help improve flexibility and reduce strain on the plantar fascia (Goff & Crawford, 2011).
Corticosteroid Injections – For severe inflammation, steroid injections can provide temporary relief by reducing pain and swelling (Crawford & Thomson, 2003).
Laser Therapy – A cutting-edge, non-invasive treatment that stimulates cellular repair, reduces inflammation, and accelerates healing.
Shockwave Therapy – This innovative therapy uses sound waves to promote tissue healing and relieve chronic pain (Speed, 2004).

Why Choose West Coast Podiatry?

At West Coast Podiatry, we are committed to providing comprehensive, compassionate care for patients in Sarasota, Bradenton, and Venice. Our experienced podiatrists specialize in diagnosing and treating plantar fasciitis using state-of-the-art techniques tailored to each patient’s needs. Whether you’re looking for conservative care or advanced treatment options, we are here to help you get back on your feet.

If you’re struggling with persistent heel pain, don’t wait to seek relief. Schedule an appointment with a plantar fasciitis doctor at West Coast Podiatry today and take the first step toward pain-free living!