MD Podiatrist Discusses Plantar Fasciitis

If you experience chronic heel pain, chances are you suffer from a condition called plantar fasciitis. An estimated 10 percent of Americans suffer from this condition. “Patients with plantar fasciitis often experience a sharp pain in the foot the first thing in the morning or when getting up after a prolonged period of sitting, said Daniel Michaels, DPM
 
“The condition often develops gradually and can affect one or both feet.” The extent of the pain and inflammation from plantar fasciitis is different from person to person. Once diagnosed, treatment options can include simple changes, such as modifying your activities, losing weight, icing the area, changing your running or exercise regimes, or purchasing more supportive shoes. Other patients may require medication, physical therapy, or orthotics. An extremely small percentage of patients require surgery to repair the problem.