Learning More About Plantar Fasciitis
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Have you noticed an increase in foot pain? If the answer to that question is yes, especially if you notice that the discomfort is concentrated in the heels or peaks first thing in the morning, you might have plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a ligament that runs along the sole of your foot, connecting your heel to your toes and supporting the arch of your foot. Small tears and inflammation in the plantar fascia ligament can cause pain in your heel, especially when you first wake up.
If this sounds like you, it's time to schedule a visit to the podiatrist's office. With years of specialized training and experience, your podiatrist is the best-qualified professional to diagnose and treat all issues of the feet, ankles, and lower legs.
If your doctor diagnoses plantar fasciitis, he or she will offer a variety of treatment modalities. Custom orthotics, physical therapy, and steroid injections are all options. But there's plenty you can do to help yourself. Keep your feet feeling great all day with these simple stretches that you can do in the morning before you even get out of bed.
Always warm up before any kind of exercise. Warm up your feet by "writing" the alphabet in the air with your toes.
Point your toes and flex each ankle 10 times.
Crunch your toes toward the sole of your foot as if you're trying to use them to pick up a pencil. Hold for 15 seconds and release. Repeat 10 times on each foot.
Sit on the edge of the bed with your heel on the floor. Use your hand to pull your big toe toward you. Hold for 15-30 seconds, then release. Repeat 4 times on each leg.
To keep your feet comfortable, be sure to wear slippers in the morning and comfortable, supportive footwear during the day. Ice and anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen can help if your plantar fasciitis flares up during the day.
Here at The Texas Foot Specialists, Dr. Bruce Miller and Dr. Gregory Mangum provide expert and specialized care to address all of your foot and ankle needs. From conservative to advanced surgical treatments, you can always count on us for quality and compassionate care. Contact us online to make an appointment at one of our conveniently located offices in Sugar Land, Pasadena or Houston.