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Plantar Fasciitis Diagnosis & Treatment

If you are a dedicated runner, you may be familiar with the pain of plantar fasciitis. This condition is the most common cause of pain on the bottom of the heel. Your plantar fascia is a long ligament that is located beneath the skin on the bottom of your foot. This ligament connects your heel to the front of your foot while supporting the arch of your foot. Plantar fasciitis occurs when the ligament becomes irritated and inflamed due to overuse from running or jumping.

At Barrington Orthopedic Specialists, our highly-experienced, certified specialists can help you find relief and ultimately decide the right course of action for your plantar fasciitis. After diagnosing your condition based on a physical examination of your feet, your orthopedist will recommend either nonsurgical or surgical treatments based on your specific condition. These may include the following:

  • Anti-inflammatory medication
  • Physical therapy
  • Cortisone injections
  • Supportive shoes/ orthotics
  • Night splints
  • Gastrocnemius recession surgery
  • Plantar fascia release surgery

Our team will work alongside you to develop a personalized treatment plan that truly works for you. If surgery is decided as the best course of action for your plantar fasciitis, we will continue to help you through your rehabilitation process to ensure a healthy, quick recovery.

If your plantar fasciitis pain is preventing you from the activities you enjoy, schedule your first consultation with the team at Barrington Orthopedic Specialists today. If you’re in an emergency situation, visit the Immediate Care Clinic at our Schaumburg, IL location.

Plantar Fasciitis FAQ

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis (fashee-EYE-tiss) is the most common cause of pain on the bottom of the heel. It occurs when the strong band of tissue supporting the arch of your foot becomes irritated and inflamed. Approximately 2 million patients are treated for this condition every year.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

The plantar fascia absorbs the stresses and strains placed on the foot. Excessive pressure can damage or tear the tissue, leading to inflammation. This inflammation causes heel pain and stiffness characteristic of plantar fasciitis.

What Are the Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis?

The most common symptoms of plantar fasciitis include:

  • Pain on the bottom of the foot near the heel
  • Pain with the first steps in the morning or after long periods of rest
  • Greater pain after exercise or activity (not during)

What Are the Treatment Options for Plantar Fasciitis?

Nonsurgical Treatment

Over 90% of patients improve within 10 months of starting simple treatments. These include:

  • Rest: Reduce activities that worsen the pain, such as running or step aerobics.
  • Ice: Roll your foot over a cold water bottle or apply ice for 20 minutes, 3–4 times daily.
  • Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen reduce pain and inflammation.
  • Exercise: Stretching the calves and plantar fascia is essential:
    • Calf Stretch: Lean against a wall, keep one knee straight and heel down, pushing hips toward the wall. Hold 10 seconds; repeat 20 times per foot.
    • Plantar Fascia Stretch: While seated, cross the affected foot over your opposite knee. Pull your toes back gently, feeling a stretch in the fascia. Hold for 10 seconds and repeat 20 times.
  • Cortisone Injections: Steroid injections may relieve inflammation but should be limited to avoid tissue rupture.
  • Supportive Shoes & Orthotics: Use cushioned shoes, heel pads, or custom orthotics to reduce tension on the fascia.
  • Night Splints: Night splints keep the plantar fascia stretched while you sleep, reducing morning pain.
  • Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can help with stretching, massage, and specialized treatments.
  • Shockwave Therapy (ESWT): Noninvasive treatment using high-energy impulses to stimulate tissue healing. ESWT is sometimes tried before surgery.

Surgical Treatment

Surgery is considered only after 12 months of nonsurgical treatment. Options include:

  • Gastrocnemius Recession: Lengthens tight calf muscles to reduce stress on the plantar fascia.
  • Plantar Fascia Release: Partially cuts the plantar fascia to relieve tension. Bone spurs may also be removed during this procedure.