Before Your Foot Pain Sets In: How to Prevent Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain and affects roughly two million Americans.

It can involve pain and inflammation of the thick band of tissue, called the plantar fascia, that runs across the bottom of your foot and connects your heel bone to your toes.

When you injure your plantar fasciitis, you may experience weakness, inflammation and pain if you walk or stand.

Plantar fasciitis can occur in anyone, but it is prevalent in middle-aged women and men. However, there are some exceptions, like younger athletes or soldiers who are constantly on their feet. If you have high arches or flat feet, are overweight, have tight calf and Achilles tendon muscles, or are wearing the wrong shoes, you are at a greater risk for developing plantar fasciitis.

What are the treatment options for plantar fasciitis?

Typically, treatment options include stretching and strengthening exercise, physical therapy, pain relievers, and the use of orthotics. A combination of therapies works best, however, and can have you back on your feet pain-free within a few months.

If any of these treatments aren't working over a long period of time, you might want to consider surgery or steroid shots.

Is there anything you can do to prevent plantar fasciitis?

Prevention methods include stretching your calves and heels on a daily basis, making sure to warm up before you exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and buying the correct shoes.

What else do you need to know about plantar fasciitis?

Dr. Robert Weil joins Dr. Mike to discuss if you're at risk for plantar fasciitis, symptoms of plantar fasciitis, and proven methods for preventing the condition.