Orthopedic Plantar Fasciitis Specialist in Chicago, IL
Chicago’s Trusted Orthopedic Doctors for Heel Pain and Plantar Fasciitis
The board-certified foot and heel experts at Suburban Orthopaedics know that plantar fasciitis and heel pain can hurt your quality of life. If you’ve ever experienced sharp pain in the bottom of your foot, especially during those first steps out of bed in the morning, you might be familiar with this standard yet debilitating condition. If you suspect your symptoms are being caused by plantar fasciitis, contact your Suburban Orthopaedics specialist for a physician evaluation.
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is a prevalent foot condition that primarily results in heel pain. The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, connecting your heel bone to your toes. Excessive stress or strain on this tissue can cause inflammation, leading to plantar fasciitis.
If you have plantar fasciitis, you may experience a sharp pain around your heel at the bottom of your foot. This pain is typically the most severe when you take your first steps upon waking up in the morning or after sitting for an extended period and then standing or walking.
You may also feel pain after exercising, which is uncommon during workouts. Sometimes, the pain may decrease as you move around, but your foot may continue to ache as the day progresses.
Symptoms of plantar fasciitis include:
- Heel Pain
- Pain with Movement
- Stiffness
- Tenderness
- Pain that Improves with Activity
- Pain Along the Arch
- Difficulty Climbing Stairs
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is usually caused by straining the plantar fascia, the ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. This ligament is important because it supports your arch and helps you walk. The strain on this ligament can cause it to become irritated or swollen.
Other causes include:
- Overuse
- Improper Footwear
- Obesity
- Tight Muscles
- Age
- Poor footwear
How Can I Treat Plantar Fasciitis?
Treating plantar fasciitis often involves steps you can take at home and some treatments your doctor may suggest. Here are some common treatments:
- Rest and ice: Taking a break from activities that cause foot pain and icing your foot for 15-20 minutes several times a day can help reduce pain and swelling.
- Pain relievers: Over-the-counter medicines like ibuprofen and naproxen can help lessen pain and inflammation
- Physical therapy: Your doctor or a physical therapist can show you exercises to stretch your plantar fascia and Achilles tendon and strengthen your lower leg muscles. These exercises can help stabilize your ankle and heel.
- Suitable footwear: Wearing shoes with good arch support and a cushioned sole can help. Avoid going barefoot, especially on hard surfaces.
- Surgery: If your symptoms persist despite nonsurgical and home treatments, consider foot surgery.
Plantar Fasciitis Treatment in Schaumburg, IL
If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, please do not hesitate to contact us at Suburban Orthopaedics. You can schedule an appointment at any of our Schaumburg, Bartlet, Elgin IL, or Downtown Chicago locations.
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