How Can Doctors Diagnose the Condition?
Plantar fasciitis usually reveals itself in pain and discomfort in the soles of your feet. After all, the plantar fascia is the ligament connecting the heel bone to the toes. You may be experiencing inflammation or prolonged pain, especially when standing or sitting. When you visit Dr. Chae, he will start with a consultation. Then you can tell him more about the foot pain you have. He will use an X-ray, ultrasound, or MRI to diagnose and rule out other issues.
What Are the Risks?
Anyone can get this condition. However, due to the wear and tear that occurs over the years, it is more likely to occur with age. Therefore, most patients are in the 40 to 60-year-old range. Obesity is a major risk factor due to the pressure excessive weight puts on the feet. If you have a job like construction or manufacturing, prolonged walking and standing on hard surfaces can affect your feet.
What Treatment Is Available?
When your podiatrist in Indianapolis, IN, begins treating this condition, he will show you some stretching techniques to ease tension in the area. He may also recommend physical therapy. Applying ice packs can help soothe the area during a painful flare-up. You may need shoe inserts to provide comfort. Your podiatrists can prescribe custom orthotics based on the shape of your feet and gait to provide cushioning and prevent pain.
Stretching the area out at night can also be effective. Your podiatrist can create night splints to stretch the area while you are sleeping. Dr. Chae may prescribe anti-inflammatory medication. However, if none of these options work, your doctor can perform surgery. During surgery, he will detach the ligament from the heel.
You don’t have to linger in foot pain and inflammation that make it hard to stand or be as mobile as you like. Dr. Chae is your trusted foot doctor at Active Podiatry. If you need an experienced and friendly podiatrist in Indianapolis, IN, who can relieve your pain, call us at (765) 362-7200 to make an appointment today.