Plantar Fasciitis Specialist

What is plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of your plantar fascia, which is the thick band of tissue that runs on the bottom of your feet from your heels to your toes. Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. 

Your plantar fascia acts as a shock absorber and supports your locomotion. Too much stress on the tissue may create tears and inflammation that results in pain.

You may be at risk of developing plantar fasciitis if you engage in high-stress physical activity, such as running. Non-supportive footwear may also increase your risk of this common foot condition. 

Dr. Sloan has training in biomechanics and understands how your gait affects the structure and function of your feet. Overpronation means your foot turns inward when you walk or run, which may increase the risk of developing plantar fasciitis. 

What are the symptoms of plantar fasciitis?

Heel pain is the most common symptom of plantar fasciitis. You may notice your pain is worse when you first wake up in the morning or after spending a long period of time off your feet. With plantar fasciitis, the pain usually subsides after you take a few steps. 

What can I expect during a plantar fasciitis evaluation?

You can expect a comprehensive evaluation when you come in to see Dr. Sloan at Lake Pointe Foot & Ankle for a plantar fasciitis evaluation. The goal of the exam is to find the root cause of your pain and inflammation so he can design the most effective treatment plan.

During your evaluation, Dr. Sloan asks detailed questions about your symptoms and the activities that worsen or alleviate your pain. He also asks about the type of shoes you wear for everyday use, as well as when exercising.

Dr. Sloan examines your feet and may perform in-house X-rays or ultrasound testing to confirm or rule out a diagnosis. He may also ask to look at your shoes to evaluate your biomechanics and signs of overpronation. 

How is plantar fasciitis treated?

Dr. Sloan develops individualized treatment plans for plantar fasciitis based on the severity of your symptoms and the underlying cause. Your treatment plan may include:

• Rest, ice, compression, and elevation
• Strapping or taping to reduce strain
• Activity modification
• Physical therapy
• Stretching program
• Custom-made orthotics
• Cortisone injections

In most cases, people experience improvements in their heel pain with conservative treatments. However, if your symptoms fail to improve and affect your quality of life, Dr. Sloan may talk to you about surgical intervention to alleviate your symptoms and stress on your plantar fascia.

For a comprehensive approach to plantar fasciitis, call Lake Pointe Foot & Ankle, or book an appointment online today.