Coping with Chronic Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain, and it’s caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia tissue that runs from your heel bone to your toes. Has your podiatrist in Chicago told you that you’re suffering from this painful condition? If so, then continue reading for tips on coping with chronic plantar fasciitis.

Medications

After diagnosing you with plantar fasciitis, your podiatrist may advise you to take over-the-counter pain relievers, such as naproxen sodium or ibuprofen, to help address your inflammation and discomfort. Applying ice to the area may also provide you with relief.

Therapy

Physical therapy and plantar fasciitis exercises can help you cope with the condition as you stretch and strengthen the lower leg muscles, Achilles tendon, and plantar fascia. Also, to help improve your condition, your physical therapist or podiatrist may recommend that you wear night splints or custom orthotics.

Footwear

Besides wearing orthotics, there are several things to consider when it comes to footwear and coping with chronic plantar fasciitis. You should avoid wearing high heels and, instead, choose shoes with low to moderate heels, good shock absorbency, and sufficient arch support. Also, avoid walking barefoot and replace your athletic shoes before they become too worn out and stop providing your feet with support.

Lifestyle

If you’re overweight or obese, then losing weight may reduce your plantar fasciitis pain. One healthy weight loss method is to adopt an exercise routine, but you should consider activities that are low-impact, such as cycling or swimming, to avoid aggravating your symptoms. If you’re a runner who is suffering from plantar fasciitis, then temporarily changing your sport to one that is low-impact may give your plantar fascia a chance to heal.

Surgery

If, after at least several months, your chronic plantar fasciitis symptoms don’t improve with conservative treatments and coping mechanisms, then your podiatrist may recommend that you consider surgical options or steroid injections, which may provide you with relief.