According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, Plantar fasciitis is a painful inflammatory process of the plantar fascia tissue on the sole of the foot which affects around 2 million Americans each year. Plantar fascia manifests in people who practice high impact sports-runners, gymnasts, parachutists, and athletes who train on artificial surfaces, according to David Pierson, former president of the International Federation of Sports Chiropractors.

Dr. Miles Colaprate, DC at Balance Chiropractic and Acupuncture in Shelburne, Vermont, says, “Many people try to treat PF with minor stretching and denial. They roll their foot on a golf ball, or ice and heat their foot, neither of which are the correct therapy. Turns out, Pierson and Colaprete both agree that Plantar fascia can be treated at home; even more importantly if it's caught early.

Plantar Fasciitis can be painful and frustrating. If you are currently experiencing pain in the ball of your foot or heels, where the plantar fascia is located, it is best to seek the care of a podiatrist like Dr. Howard Hyman of The Podiatry Center, P.C. Dr. Hyman can examine your feet and work with you to provide an appropriate treatment option to ensure healing and recovery.

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the connective tissues on the bottom of the foot, causing pain in the heel and arch of the foot.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Lack of adequate footwear
• Obesity
• Excessive running
• Poor foot support
• Overpronation

How Can Plantar Fasciitis Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices. 
• Shockwave therapy – sends sound waves to the areas where pain is experience.  Requires multiple sessions.  This is used for very persistent cases of plantar fasciitis. 
• Ultrasound-guided technique with steroid injections into the plantar fascia.  This is from a relatively new and small study, but was shown to be effective in most cases treated.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office in Milburn NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot ankle injuries.

Read more on Plantar Fasciitis.