What is plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is a severe foot condition caused by inflammation of the connective tissue that stretches from the base of the toes, across the arch of the foot, to the point at which it inserts into the heel bone. Characterized by sharp, stabbing pain in the heels, plantar fasciitis is often worse first thing in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
What causes plantar fasciitis?
A variety of factors that put excessive pressure on the fascia and ligaments in your feet can lead to plantar fasciitis. For example, if you are overweight or pregnant, the extra weight you carry can cause plantar fasciitis to develop.
Long-distance runners are also at a higher risk of developing the condition because of the strain and stress they put on their feet and legs during training and competition. Plantar fasciitis is also triggered by conditions like flat feet or high arches. Tight Achilles’ tendons can also contribute to the condition.
How is plantar fasciitis diagnosed?
Dr. Beylin examines your feet, carefully testing for signs of inflammation, tenderness, and to pinpoint the exact location of your foot pain. He asks you to flex and point your foot while he presses on the fascia to determine if your pain lessens or increases in different situations. He asks questions about your pain including how long you’ve been experiencing it, when it flares up, and where you feel it.
How is plantar fasciitis treated?
Also called “heel spur syndrome,” plantar fasciitis is usually successfully treated with conservative measures such as the use of anti-inflammatory medications and ice packs, stretching exercises, orthotic devices, and physical therapy. Depending on your condition, Dr. Beylin may prescribe customized shoe inserts called orthotics to help alleviate your heel pain.
Dr. Beylin also offers stem cell and PRP injections to relieve plantar fasciitis. Stem cell and PRP injections release growth factors that kick-start your body’s healing process. PRP treatment uses a sample of your own blood, which is separated in a centrifuge to create a concentrated solution of platelets. PRP delivers a concentrated dose of your platelets to your fascia and tendons, delivering more growth factors than your body produces naturally.
If you have any questions about our services, please contact us today at (754) 702-2677 (Coral Springs) or (954) 325-9871 (Sunrise).