Stabbing pain in your heel? It could be plantar fasciitis.
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The condition occurs when the thick ligaments on the bottom of your foot (the plantar fascia) become irritated or inflamed from overuse. It affects runners, walkers, hikers, and nearly anyone whose job involves standing all day.
The plantar fascia is a sheet of connective tissue that stretches from your heel to your toes. It helps support the arch of your foot and acts as a shock absorber when you walk. Repeatedly putting pressure on your feet during exercise or work can strain this tissue and lead to inflammation and degeneration.
The signature symptom of plantar fasciitis is morning heel pain. This means the pain is felt during your first few steps of the day. As you continue to move, the pain decreases, though it can sometimes return after a long period of standing, or upon rising from sitting. Plantar fasciitis pain is most commonly felt on the bottom of the heel, and sometimes in the arch of the foot. It may be dull or sharp, and can have an aching or burning sensation.
When left untreated, plantar fasciitis may result in chronic heel pain and affect your quality of life. It may also change the way you walk, causing knee, hip, and/or back problems.
If you’re suffering from foot pain and suspect it might be plantar fasciitis, head into Liberty Urgent Care.
Our medical team can perform a physical exam, evaluate your symptoms, and rule out other causes of foot pain, such as a stress fracture or a pinched nerve. Whatever your diagnosis, we will provide you with an appropriate treatment plan to reduce your pain. We can also offer a referral to a specialist if necessary. Walk in today and start feeling better.