Unfortunately, many people don’t listen to their feet when they start hurting and continue their daily routine; however, this only makes foot problems worse. It’s important that you know when to take time to rest and also when you should turn to our Scarborough, ME, podiatrist Dr. Peter Ocampo for additional treatment.
You might have plantar fasciitis if you are dealing with:
- Heel pain that originates at the bottom of the heel
- Arch pain
- Stiffness of the arches and heel
- Swelling around the heel
- Pain that’s worse first thing in the morning
- Pain that gets worse after long periods of sitting
Of course, plantar fasciitis isn’t the only condition that can cause heel pain. Achilles tendonitis, heel spurs and other problems can also cause the same or similar symptoms. If this is the first time dealing with heel pain then it’s a good idea to see a foot doctor in Scarborough, ME, who can diagnose the problem and provide you with the most effective treatment options.
How is plantar fasciitis treated?
Plantar fasciitis will often heal within a few weeks as long as you rest your feet and avoid certain activities such as running, which will only make inflammation worse. Following the RICE method (a common method for athletes dealing with sprains, strains, and other soft tissue injuries) can ease symptoms and allow the plantar fascia to heal. The RICE method stands for:
- Rest
- Ice
- Compression
- Elevation
You may also find that anti-inflammatory medications (e.g. ibuprofen) can also temporarily alleviate pain and swelling. While over-the-counter medication shouldn’t be taken for an extended period of time, it can ease symptoms when they flare up. If heel pain doesn’t respond to at-home care after a week you should consult your podiatrist, who can recommend further treatment options.
While rare, it is possible for plantar fasciitis to become a chronic condition. Catching the problem early and treating it immediately can reduce the risk for dealing with long-term heel pain.
If you are dealing with heel pain in Scarborough or Windham, ME, call Southern Maine Foot & Ankle to help you get your pain under control.