Heel and Arch Pain

Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of pain on the bottom of the heel and arch. Approximately two million patients are treated for this condition every year. It is characterized by acute heel pain first thing in the morning or after rest.

The problem starts when stress is applied to the plantar fascia and the fascia pulls away from its weakest insertion, causing tears, followed by inflammation and pain. Since it is hard to rest the foot for longer periods of time, the pain can intensify. Treatment must start as soon as possible, in order to prevent the pain from progressing quickly. Although many people with plantar fasciitis end up with heel spurs, they are normally not the cause. According to research, one out of every 10 people has heel spurs, but only five per cent of people with heel spurs have heel pain. Since heel spurs do not cause plantar fasciitis, the pain can be treated without removing the spur. Many predisposing factors can cause plantar fasciitis and heel spurs. Some of the most common ones are flat feet, high-arched rigid feet, overuse, repetitive impact activity (i.e., running), new or increased activity, and obesity.

NON-SURGICAL TREATMENT

1. Rest is the first and most important part of treatment. Weight-bearing activities should be limited, in order to allow your body to start the healing process. 2. Ice. Rolling your foot over a cold water bottle or ice for 10 minutes twice a day is effective in reducing inflammation. 3. Orthotics are custom orthopedic devices prescribed by your chiropodist/ family doctor. They serve to realign your feet and prevent any abnormal compensation due to biomechanical abnormalities. 4. Laser Therapy is non-invasive and it is used to control pain and accelerate healing. 5. Plantar Fasciitis Night Splints keep the plantar fascia in an elongated position overnight, reducing the initial stretch that occurs when you take your first morning step. 6. Cortisone injections are very beneficial if the above therapies have not solved the problem.

SURGICAL TREATMENT

Surgery might be considered after 12 months of aggressive non-surgical treatment. Plantar fascia release is one of the most common surgical methods used. During surgery, the plantar fascia ligament is partially cut to relieve tension in the tissue. It should be noted that surgery is rarely required for plantar fasciitis. Usually over 90 per cent of the cases are resolved by non-surgical methods. The prime goal at Family Foot and Orthotics Clinic is to keep you moving pain-free, so give them a call and put your family foot health in the right hands!

FAMILY FOOT & ORTHOTICS CLINIC 120 OTTAWA ST. N., KITCHENER