Plantar Fasciitis Specialist

What is plantar fasciitis?

The plantar fascia ligament is a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the feet. When this ligament becomes torn and/or inflamed, you’ve developed plantar fasciitis.

If you have plantar fasciitis, you may feel pain near your heel bone. Many people with this condition describe this pain as a stabbing sensation. The pain will usually be worse when you take your first steps in the morning, and it’ll get better as the day goes on. However, you may notice a return of severe pain if you stand for a long time.

What causes plantar fasciitis?

The plantar fascia ligament acts as a shock-absorber, providing support for the arch in your foot as you walk. Plantar fasciitis often develops if too much stress is placed on the plantar fascia, leading to small tears.

Certain risk factors may make it more likely for you to develop plantar fasciitis. Some of these factors include:

• Being overweight or obese
• Having a high arch or flat feet
• Having an abnormal pattern of walking or standing
• Being over the age of 40
• Wearing the wrong shoes
• Spending a lot of time on your feet

How does Dr. Genkin treat plantar fasciitis?

Most cases of plantar fasciitis will respond well to non-surgical treatments.

• Wearing night splints
• Wearing a special splint that holds the plantar fascia in a lengthened position overnight reduces the symptoms of this condition and promotes healing.
• Physical therapy
• Performing the right exercises stretches the plantar fascia, strengthens your lower leg muscles, and stabilizes your heel and ankle. Not only does this treat symptoms of plantar fasciitis, but it can also prevent the condition from recurring.
• Custom arch supportsWearing custom arch supports in your shoes may improve your symptoms, help you heal faster, and prevent the condition from returning.

Every patient heals differently, and some may take more time to recover than others. However, if you don’t respond well to these conservative treatments, Dr. Genkin may recommend other options, such as injections or surgery. These more invasive treatments are used as a last resort for most patients.