Plantar Fasciitis Specialist

What is plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is a series of microscopic tears in your plantar fascia, the ligament-like tissue that extends from your heel to the middle bones of your foot. Your plantar fascia provides much of the support for your foot arch. 

When you walk, stand, and run, your plantar fascia absorbs pressure, but excessive amounts of pressure can lead to plantar fasciitis. Many factors can contribute to this condition, including flat feet, obesity, and Achilles tendon tightness. Standing for long periods is also a common cause.

What symptoms does plantar fasciitis cause?

Heel pain is the main symptom of plantar fasciitis. Many people say that their heel pain starts early in the morning, with the first couple of steps after waking up. The pain usually lessens as you walk but can return with heavy exercise or after a period of rest.

How does plantar fasciitis treatment work?

At Front Range Foot and Ankle Clinic, Dr. Mallett emphasizes education and conservative care, a combination that’s proven highly effective for his patients. 

To understand the underlying reasons for your plantar fasciitis, Dr. Mallett reviews your case carefully and asks questions about your health, activities, and lifestyle. 

Some of the most common treatments for plantar fasciitis include: 

Custom orthotics

Custom orthotics can support your arch and raise your heel slightly, which eases the pressure on your plantar fascia. 

Change of footwear

Athletic shoes or other footwear with a cushioned heel and plenty of arch support can relieve your plantar fascia discomfort.

Anti-inflammatory medication

Anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen can quickly decrease the inflammation and, therefore, the pain of plantar fasciitis.

Stretching exercises

Daily stretching exercises to gently extend your plantar fascia and Achilles tendon can help with your symptoms. 

Night splint 

A night splint positions your foot so that your plantar fascia is stretched out as you sleep. This helps to reduce the pain when you take the first few steps in the morning.

Cortisone injections

If other treatments don’t relieve your plantar fasciitis symptoms, a cortisone injection can reduce inflammation and pain. Cortisone injections work for several weeks, perhaps longer. 

If you’ve tried conservative options but your plantar fasciitis persists, Dr. Mallett may recommend a surgical procedure to release tension in your plantar fascia. 

Front Range Foot and Ankle Clinic has help for plantar fasciitis pain, so get in touch by phone or through online booking.