What causes plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is caused by repetitive strain on the plantar fascia, often due to overuse, flat feet, high arches, tight calf muscles, or prolonged standing on hard surfaces.

How long does plantar fasciitis take to heal?

With appropriate treatment, most patients see significant improvement within a few weeks to a few months. Chronic cases may require more advanced therapies such as MLS laser therapy or shock wave therapy.

Does plantar fasciitis require surgery?

Surgery is rarely needed. The vast majority of plantar fasciitis cases resolve with conservative treatments including stretching, orthotics, physical therapy, and laser or shock wave therapy.

Plantar Fasciitis Treatment | DFW Foot & Ankle

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot from the heel to the base of the toes. It supports the arch and absorbs impact during walking and standing. Plantar fasciitis develops when this tissue becomes irritated, overstressed, or inflamed, often near its attachment at the heel.

Symptoms

The classic symptom is sharp pain on the bottom of the heel with the first steps after waking. Pain may ease with movement and return after prolonged standing, walking, exercise, or sitting. Some patients feel tightness in the arch or calf. Others develop compensatory pain in the opposite foot, knees, hips, or back from changing the way they walk.

Causes and Risk Factors

Plantar fasciitis may be caused by standing or walking on hard surfaces, running, sudden increases in activity, flat feet, high arches, tight calf muscles, tight Achilles tendons, unsupportive shoes, worn-out footwear, weight changes, or starting a new exercise routine too quickly.

Treatment at DFW Foot and Ankle

Most cases respond well to conservative treatment. Dr. Suh may recommend custom orthotics, supportive footwear, calf and plantar fascia stretching, activity modification, icing, night splints, MLS laser therapy, shock wave therapy, anti-inflammatory measures, or injections when appropriate.

Custom Orthotics

Custom orthotics can be especially helpful because they support the arch, cushion the heel, redistribute pressure, and address the biomechanical factors that contribute to plantar fascia strain.

Advanced Therapy Options

MLS Laser Therapy may help reduce inflammation and promote tissue healing. Shock wave therapy may be considered for chronic or stubborn plantar fasciitis by using acoustic energy to stimulate healing and address scar tissue or calcifications.