Plantar Fasciitis

Up to 1 million Americans visit a podiatrist each year for plantar fasciitis treatment. At his practice in The Woodlands and Humble, Texas, board-certified podiatrist and foot and ankle surgeon Jason Armstrong, DPM, has over 20 years of experience in diagnosing and treating plantar fasciitis using conservative and minimally invasive means. Call Jason Armstrong, DPM, today to schedule a plantar fasciitis consultation, or book your appointment online.

Is all heel pain caused by plantar fasciitis?

No. Plantar fasciitis is the leading cause of chronic (long-term) heel pain. But other things present similar symptoms, including heel spurs and Achilles tendinitis. If you have heel pain that doesn’t improve with rest, ice, and activity changes, contact Dr. Armstrong as soon as possible.

What are the symptoms of plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis symptoms include:

• Tight Achilles tendon
• Swelling around your heel
• Stiffness
• Pain in the arch of your foot
• Persistent heel pain

Plantar fasciitis pain can occur anytime, but it’s particularly noticeable in the mornings and after sitting for extended periods.

Should I see a foot and ankle specialist about plantar fasciitis?

Yes. Any heel pain that lasts more than a few days requires prompt treatment. Even if it isn’t plantar fasciitis, Dr. Armstrong determines the cause and recommends personalized care to relieve symptoms and help you return to your daily routine.

How does a foot and ankle specialist diagnose plantar fasciitis?

Dr. Armstrong reviews your medical records, asks about your symptoms, and completes a podiatry exam. He looks at your heel and ankle, checking for redness, bruising, and swelling. He gently presses your heel and the back of your foot to identify sensitive spots.

How does a foot and ankle specialist treat plantar fasciitis?

Dr. Armstrong treats plantar fasciitis by taking a conservative and minimally invasive approach. Depending on your age and how severe your symptoms are, he might suggest:

• Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication
• Icing your foot
• Rest
• Wearing comfortable shoes that support your heels
• Custom-fitted orthotics (shoe inserts)
• Corticosteroids
• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections
• Extracorporeal pulse activation technology (EPAT)

If your symptoms continue or get worse after these treatments, you could qualify for plantar fasciitis surgery. During surgery, Dr. Armstrong releases your plantar fascia or calf muscle, relieving pressure and restoring your range of motion.

What’s the outlook for plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis usually starts improving within a few days of beginning conservative treatment. But it can take several weeks or months, depending on its severity. If you start feeling better, but your symptoms return, contact Dr. Armstrong for a checkup.

Call the practice of Jason Armstrong, DPM, today to schedule a plantar fasciitis appointment, or book your visit online.