Most Common Heel Condition and Treatment in Frisco, Little Elm, and McKinney

Heel pain can result from various conditions, but plantar fasciitis is the most common cause. Plantar fasciitis is a painful condition characterized by inflammation in the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs from the heel bone to the ball of the foot. This inflammation can cause sharp, stabbing pain in the heel that is often triggered by long periods of standing, walking, or sitting.

Plantar fasciitis can be caused by several factors, including overuse, an abnormal foot structure, or obesity. Athletes, particularly runners, are also at a higher risk of developing this condition. In addition to pain, some patients may experience stiffness or swelling in the heel and arch of the foot, which can make it difficult to walk or stand for long periods.

Treatment options may include rest, ice, stretching exercises, and physical therapy. In some cases, one of our podiatrists may recommend wearing orthotics or using medications to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. The goal of treatment is to relieve your pain and prevent your plantar fascia from overstretching. In severe cases, surgery may be required to release the plantar fascia from the heel bone. If the underlying problem is found to be a bone spur, then surgery is the only option.

A number of factors can increase your risk of developing plantar fasciitis, including:

• Age- Plantar fasciitis most commonly affects people around the ages of forty to sixty due to the natural wear on the body.
• Obesity- Excess body weight will put extra stress on the plantar fascia.
• Foot structure- People with flat feet or high arches are at a higher risk.
• If you are an athlete or have an active lifestyle- Many athletes and runners tend to develop plantar fasciitis, especially people who frequently run or play sports like soccer. Repetitive movements on the foot can cause the plantar fascia to become worn down and develop tears.

Preventing plantar fasciitis can be difficult, but there are several steps you can take to reduce your risk. These include wearing supportive shoes that fit properly, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding activities that involve repetitive foot movements.

In some cases, plantar fasciitis has developed with no clear cause, which is why it is important to see one of our specialists at Foot & Ankle Centers of Frisco, Little Elm, & McKinney to ensure a proper diagnosis and determine the most effective treatment plan for your heel pain.