Up to 1 in 10 Americans has plantar fasciitis, a painful condition characterized by intense heel pain. If you have achy or burning feet and they don’t respond to ice or rest, seek treatment. Dr. Robert A. Raley and the team provide complete care for plantar fasciitis. To make an appointment, call the office in Kankakee, Illinois, or book online today.
Plantar fasciitis occurs when your plantar fascia –– a band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot –– experiences damage due to general wear-and-tear. Over time, that damage causes chronic inflammation, resulting in heel pain and sensitivity.
Anyone can develop plantar fasciitis, but athletes and middle aged people are most at risk. If you regularly experience heel pain, contact Dr. Raley and his team.
The symptoms of plantar fasciitis include:
If you have plantar fasciitis, you might also experience intense heel pain first thing in the morning after waking up.
Several factors may increase your risk of experiencing plantar fasciitis, including:
You’re also more likely to experience plantar fasciitis if you stand for long hours at work. That’s especially true if you stand on hard surfaces, like asphalt or concrete.
To diagnose plantar fasciitis, Dr. Raley reviews your medical records, asks about your symptoms, and performs a physical exam. During the exam, Dr. Raley assesses your heel and ankle, looking for redness, bruising, or swelling. He also asks you to walk around the exam room so he can observe your gait and posture.
Next, Dr. Raley orders diagnostic imaging, including digital X-rays and ultrasound. These procedures can rule out other potential issues, like fractures or arthritis.
Treatment of plantar fasciitis depends on various factors, including your age, the severity of your symptoms, and their effect on your quality of life. Dr. Raley and the team might recommend:
If your symptoms don’t improve after these treatments, Dr. Raley might recommend surgery. During plantar fasciitis surgery, Dr. Raley cuts your plantar fascia, helping relieve some of the tension.
To receive treatment for plantar fasciitis, make an appointment at the practice of Dr. Robert A. Raley by calling the office or booking online today.