Plantar Fascitis Medical Treatment
Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of foot pain in people who walk long distances and those who train very frequently with their legs and feet. Plantar fasciitis occurs when the long band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your feet becomes inflamed and irritated.
Many cases of plantar fasciitis can be treated with at-home care. Treatment options include rest, stretching, ice, and anti-inflammatory medications. However, if your plantar fasciitis is severe, your doctor may recommend physical therapy, injection therapy, or surgery.
Physical therapy for plantar fascitis usually includes an initial rest period, followed by exercises to strengthen the affected muscles. A boot or shoe insert is often used to support the heel while walking and to protect the heel from excessive pressure. Your doctor will advise you on how to perform these exercises.
Injection therapy for plantar fasciitis may include corticosteroid injections. Corticosteroid injections are generally safe and effective. If they don’t work, your doctor may consider other injection therapies.
Surgery may be needed in cases of severe plantar fasciitis. It is usually unnecessary unless the pain is severe and/or the condition doesn’t improve with conservative treatment.