Plantar fasciitis can be a real pain—literally! Therefore, finding effective treatment is essential for those who suffer from this common foot condition. But can an orthopedic doctor help? The answer is a resounding “yes”!
Let us explore how orthopedic doctors play a crucial role in diagnosing and treating plantar fasciitis. We will also highlight why choosing a specialist, like those at Advanced Orthopedics New England, can make all the difference.
Understanding Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that causes significant pain in the heel and bottom of the foot. It occurs when the thick band of connective tissue, known as the plantar fascia, becomes inflamed. This tissue band connects your heel bone to your toes and supports the arch of your foot.
The pain is often sharp and tends to be worse in the morning or after sitting for a long period. The condition is common among runners, people who are overweight, and those who wear shoes without proper support. The inflammation is usually the result of repetitive strain or stress on the plantar fascia.
How Plantar Fasciitis Affects Daily Life
Living with plantar fasciitis can be challenging. The pain in the bottom of the foot can make it difficult to stand or walk, affecting your ability to perform daily activities. It can also impact your mood and overall quality of life, as chronic pain often leads to frustration and fatigue.
Ignoring the condition can lead to further complications, such as chronic heel pain, which can change the way you walk. This can cause foot, knee, hip, or back issues. Therefore, addressing the issue promptly is crucial to maintaining your overall health and well-being.
What Is an Orthopedic Doctor?
Orthopedic doctors are specialists who focus on diagnosing, treating, and preventing conditions related to the musculoskeletal system – this includes bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, and muscles. They are trained to handle a wide range of orthopedic issues, from sports injuries to chronic conditions like arthritis.
Why Choose an Orthopedic Doctor for Plantar Fasciitis?
Choosing an orthopedic doctor for plantar fasciitis offers several benefits. These specialists have extensive training and specialized knowledge in musculoskeletal health, making them well-suited to treat conditions like plantar fasciitis. They also have access to advanced diagnostic tools and techniques to accurately assess your condition.
Orthopedic doctors can develop a comprehensive treatment plan that may include physical therapy, medications, or minimally invasive procedures. Their goal is to relieve your foot pain and restore your mobility.
How Can an Orthopedic Doctor Help?
Here are some ways an orthopedic doctor can help with your plantar fasciitis.
Initial Assessment
The first step in treating plantar fasciitis is a thorough assessment by an orthopedic doctor. During your appointment, the doctor will evaluate your symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle. They may perform a physical exam to assess the pain and tenderness in your foot.
Diagnostic imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRIs, may be ordered to rule out other conditions like fractures or arthritis. This comprehensive evaluation helps the doctor determine the underlying cause of your plantar fasciitis and develop an effective treatment plan.
Treatment Options for Plantar Fasciitis
There are different methods to treat plantar fasciitis, from simple to more advanced methods. Your treatment choice depends on how bad your condition is and how you respond to initial treatments.
Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
These are pain medications that help reduce inflammation and pain in the bottom of the foot. They can be prescribed by an orthopedic doctor. It is important to use these pain medications under medical guidance to avoid side effects.
Corticosteroid Injections
If pain in the foot continues despite other treatments, orthopedic sports doctors might suggest corticosteroid injections. These are given directly into the painful area of the foot to reduce inflammation and pain. This option is usually for more severe cases or when other treatments have not worked.
Physical Therapy
This is a key part of treatment and includes exercises to help improve flexibility, strength, and balance in the foot. Stretching exercises target areas like the plantar fascia, Achilles tendon, and calf muscles, which can help ease tension and reduce pain.
Orthotic Devices
These are special shoe inserts or custom-made supports that provide extra arch support. They help spread pressure evenly across the foot and stabilize it. This reduces stress on the plantar fascia, preventing further injury.
Plantar Fascia Release Surgery
This is the most common surgical procedure for plantar fasciitis treatment. The orthopedic surgeon carefully cuts part of the plantar fascia ligament to release tension, which reduces stress on the fascia and relieves pain.
This can be done through open surgery or a minimally invasive endoscopic procedure, with the latter involving smaller incisions and typically a quicker recovery time.
Orthopedic Doctor in Hartford County
Do not let plantar fasciitis hold you back from enjoying your daily activities and visit us here at Advanced Orthopedics New England. We are committed to helping you achieve lasting pain relief and a better quality of life.
With expert orthopedic specialists and personalized treatment plans for orthopedic conditions, including plantar fasciitis, we prioritize your recovery every step of the way.
To learn more about our services and to book an appointment at one of our convenient locations in Bloomfield, Enfield, Rocky Hill, Vernon, or Springfield, call us today at (860) 728-6740. We look forward to serving you!
