Camarillo & Thousand Oaks Plantar Fasciitis Treatment

Skilled Podiatrists Treating Foot Pain

The typical adult takes between 5,000 and 10,000 steps every day, and the bones, ligaments, and muscles of your feet bear the brunt of this activity. Even everyday activities such as a light stroll can be excruciatingly painful for those who suffer from plantar fasciitis, or the inflammation of the plantar fascia ligament. The plantar fascia is a long, bow-shaped ligament running along the length of the foot from heel to toe, and those who suffer from plantar fasciitis feel heel pain and overall discomfort from standing or walking.

Contact the professionals at Performance Foot and Ankle to learn more about our Camarillo & Thousand Oaks plantar fasciitis treatments.

Symptoms of plantar fasciitis include:

• Aching, burning, or stabbing pain in the sole of the affected foot
• Foot pain that is worse when waking up in the morning or after sitting for a long period of time
• Warm feeling in the heel area
• Red or swollen heel(s)
• Persistent foot pain lasting more than a few days

Plantar Fasciitis Diagnosis

During your appointment, our podiatrist at Performance Foot and Ankle will examine your feet and check for areas of tenderness to assess the cause of your foot pain. Usually, this type of examination and taking a medical history is all that is needed to pinpoint what’s causing your heel pain. In rare cases, an imaging test such as an X-ray or MRI may be needed to rule out another condition, like a pinched nerve or a stress fracture.

Plantar Fasciitis Treatments

Fortunately, plantar fasciitis usually goes away in just a few months with the right treatment. Plantar fasciitis is often treated with orthotics, physical therapy, and other noninvasive, nonsurgical treatments.

Conservative therapies to treat plantar fasciitis include:

• Medication - 
  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can help manage pain and reduce inflammation associated with plantar fasciitis.
  • Oral corticosteroids may be prescribed for short-term relief of severe symptoms.
• Steroid injections - 
  • Corticosteroid injections directly into the affected area provide targeted anti-inflammatory effects, offering rapid relief from pain and swelling.
• Physical therapy - 
  • Tailored exercises and stretches prescribed by a physical therapist can strengthen the foot, ankle, and calf muscles, improving flexibility and alleviating strain on the plantar fascia.
  • Manual techniques, such as massage and joint mobilization, help enhance overall foot function.
• Shockwave therapy -
  • Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT) involves delivering shockwaves to the affected area, stimulating healing and reducing pain.
  • This non-invasive procedure promotes tissue regeneration, making it particularly beneficial for chronic cases.

Surgical Treatment for Plantar Fasciitis

More thorough treatments, such as surgery, may be necessary if the more conservative treatments fail to produce results. Surgical options aim to release tension on the plantar fascia or address underlying issues contributing to the condition. Procedures may involve partial plantar fasciotomy, gastrocnemius recession, or, in rare cases, removal of heel spurs. While surgery is reserved for severe cases, it provides a viable solution to alleviate chronic pain and restore foot function. Schedule a consultation with a specialist ensures an informed decision tailored to individual needs. 

Common Questions About Plantar Fasciitis Treatment

How long does it take for plantar fasciitis to heal?

The healing time for plantar fasciitis can vary depending on the severity of the condition. In many cases, treatments can lead to significant improvement within a few weeks to months. However, more severe cases may require advanced treatments and longer recovery times.

Can I still exercise with plantar fasciitis?

While it's important to rest the affected foot, complete inactivity can worsen the condition. Low-impact exercises like swimming or cycling can be beneficial, but it's crucial to avoid activities that aggravate the pain. Consult with our podiatrist to determine the best exercise regimen for you.

Can physical therapy help with plantar fasciitis?

Yes, physical therapy can be an effective treatment option for plantar fasciitis. A physical therapist can teach you specific exercises to strengthen the muscles in your feet and calves, improve flexibility, and reduce pain.

Contact us at (805) 380-3152 to schedule a consultation in Thousand Oaks or Camarillo for plantar fasciitis treatments.