Plantar fasciitis is a prevalent foot ailment that affects the plantar fascia, a ligament-like band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes and supports the arch of the foot. When this tissue becomes irritated or inflamed, often due to excessive strain or repetitive stress, it leads to sharp, stabbing pain in the heels. Activities like prolonged standing, running, or wearing unsupportive footwear can exacerbate the condition. Without proper treatment, plantar fasciitis can persist, hindering mobility and diminishing quality of life.
Plantar Fasciitis Treatment
Anaheim and Newport Beach
Plantar fasciitis is a foot condition characterized by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of the foot. It typically causes stabbing pain near the heel, especially with the first steps in the morning or after periods of rest. Dr. Haupt offers personalized plantar fasciitis treatment in Anaheim and Newport Beach to restore optimal mobility.
What is plantar fasciitis?
Signs & symptoms:
- Sharp or stabbing pain in the bottom of the foot, particularly near the heel
- Pain typically worst with the first steps in the morning or after prolonged periods of rest
- Pain may also worsen after prolonged standing or physical activity
- Stiffness and discomfort in the foot, especially after periods of inactivity
- Tenderness or sensitivity along the bottom of the foot, particularly near the heel or arch
- Pain may improve with movement but worsen again after prolonged activity or weight-bearing
Contact us to find out more about plantar fasciitis treatment in Anaheim and Newport Beach.
Possible causes:
- Overuse or repetitive strain on the plantar fascia due to running, dancing, etc.
- Tightness or weakness in the calf muscles, Achilles tendon, or foot arch
- Obesity or sudden weight gain, placing extra pressure on the feet and heels
- Wearing unsupportive footwear with inadequate arch support or cushioning
- Certain structural foot abnormalities, such as high arches or flat feet
- Prolonged periods of standing or walking on hard surfaces
Diagnosis
Diagnosing plantar fasciitis typically begins with a comprehensive medical history and physical examination conducted by Dr. Haupt. During the examination, Dr. Haupt will inquire about your symptoms, including the location and intensity of the pain and any factors that exacerbate or alleviate it. He may also perform specific tests, such as palpating the bottom of your foot to identify areas of tenderness and evaluating your range of motion.
In some cases, Dr. Haupt may recommend imaging tests like X-rays or MRI scans to rule out other possible causes of your foot pain, such as stress fractures or nerve issues. These diagnostic tools can help confirm the diagnosis of plantar fasciitis and guide the development of an appropriate treatment plan tailored to your individual needs and lifestyle.
Treatment options
Dr. Haupt will curate a personalized plan for your plantar fasciitis treatment in Anaheim and Newport Beach based on your specific condition, generally preferring non-surgical treatments like MLS laser therapy over more invasive options.
Conservative treatments
Dr. Haupt will likely recommend conservative measures as the first line of treatment for plantar fasciitis. These may include:
- Rest and Activity Modification: Avoid activities that aggravate the condition and incorporate low-impact exercises to maintain fitness.
- Physical Therapy: Stretching and strengthening exercises targeted at the calf muscles, Achilles tendon, and plantar fascia to improve flexibility and reduce strain.
- Orthotics and Supportive Footwear: Custom orthotic inserts or supportive shoes can help redistribute pressure on the foot and provide cushioning and arch support.
MLS laser therapy
MLS (Multiwave Locked System) laser therapy is an innovative treatment option that Dr. Haupt may recommend for plantar fasciitis. This non-invasive procedure uses specific wavelengths of light to penetrate deep into the tissues, promoting cellular repair and reducing inflammation. MLS laser therapy has been shown to accelerate healing, alleviate pain, and improve range of motion in patients with plantar fasciitis.
Advanced interventions
In cases where conservative plantar fasciitis treatment in Anaheim and Newport Beach fail to provide adequate relief, Dr. Haupt may consider advanced interventions such as:
- Corticosteroid Injections: Injections of corticosteroids into the plantar fascia to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.
- Surgery: In rare cases where other treatments have been unsuccessful, surgical intervention may be necessary to release the tension on the plantar fascia.
Schedule your consultation
Newport Foot & Ankle Center is your premier destination for comprehensive foot care in Anaheim and Newport Beach. Led by Dr. Haupt, a distinguished podiatrist with specialized fellowship training, we offer expert diagnosis and treatment for conditions like plantar fasciitis. Take the first step towards relief by scheduling a consultation with Dr. Haupt today.
