Why Won’t My Plantar Fasciitis Go Away?

If you're reading this, you're probably all too familiar with the sharp pain that shoots through your heel and arch every time you take a step. You may have already tried a number of treatments, from stretching exercises to custom orthotics, and yet, your plantar fasciitis persists.

But what is plantar fasciitis, and why is it so stubborn?

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that affects the band of tissue (the plantar fascia) that runs along the bottom of your foot, connecting your heel bone to your toes. When this tissue becomes inflamed, it can cause significant heel and arch pain, especially when you first get out of bed in the morning or after periods of rest.

This article will describe the causes, symptoms and treatments of plantar fasciitis and provide tips on how to prevent it from occurring or recurring.

Table of Contents

Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis

Symptoms of plantar fasciitis include:

Pain in the heel and arch of the foot
Difficulty standing on tiptoes
Pain that is worse in the morning or after periods of rest

According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of foot pain, affecting approximately 2 million Americans yearly. It is most common in middle-aged individuals and those who are overweight or have occupations requiring long-standing.

So, if you're experiencing persistent plantar fasciitis, you're not alone. But why won't it go away? Let's take a look at some of the common causes of persistent plantar fasciitis.

Common Causes of Persistent Plantar Fasciitis

Several factors can contribute to persistent plantar fasciitis, including:

Tight calf muscles: Tight calf muscles can put added strain on the plantar fascia, leading to inflammation and pain.
Overpronation (flat feet): If you have flat feet, you may be more prone to plantar fasciitis due to the added stress placed on the plantar fascia when your foot hits the ground.
High arches: Conversely, individuals with high arches may also be more prone to plantar fasciitis due to the reduced shock absorption in the foot.
Obesity: Carrying excess weight can put added strain on the plantar fascia, leading to inflammation and pain.
Occupational factors: If your job requires you to stand for long periods, you may be more at risk for developing plantar fasciitis.

Treatment Options for Persistent Plantar Fasciitis

If you're experiencing persistent plantar fasciitis, it's important to seek treatment to find relief and prevent the condition from worsening. Some treatment options to consider include the following:

Stretching exercises: Stretching the muscles in your foot and lower leg can help alleviate the strain on the plantar fascia and reduce inflammation. Your podiatrist or physical therapist can recommend specific stretches to try.
Custom orthotics: Orthotics are inserts that go inside your shoes to support the arch of the foot. Custom orthotics are made specifically for your foot and can help alleviate the strain on the plantar fascia.
Physical therapy: Physical therapy can help strengthen your foot and lower leg muscles to better support the plantar fascia and reduce inflammation.
Night splints: Wearing a night splint while you sleep can help stretch the plantar fascia and reduce morning pain.
Corticosteroid injections: In some cases, your podiatrist may recommend a corticosteroid injection to help reduce inflammation in the plantar fascia.

It's important to note that treatment for plantar fasciitis may take time to be effective, and it may involve a combination of the above treatment options. It's also important to follow your podiatrist's recommendations and continue with treatment even if you start to feel better, as this can help prevent the condition from returning.

Preventing Recurrence of Plantar Fasciitis

Once you've found relief from plantar fasciitis, it's important to take steps to prevent it from returning. Some preventative measures to consider include:

Wearing proper footwear: Shoes that provide proper arch support and cushioning can help reduce the strain on the plantar fascia. Avoid wearing high heels or shoes that are too tight or too loose.
Maintaining a healthy weight: Carrying excess weight can put added strain on the plantar fascia, so maintaining a healthy weight can help prevent the condition from returning.
Stretching regularly: Stretching the muscles in your foot and lower leg can help keep them flexible and strong, reducing the risk of plantar fasciitis returning.
Avoiding high-impact activities: If certain activities, such as running or jumping, seem to trigger your plantar fasciitis, try to limit or avoid them to prevent flare-ups.

Conclusion

Plantar fasciitis can be a persistent and frustrating condition, but with proper treatment and preventative measures, it is possible to find relief and prevent a recurrence. If you're experiencing persistent plantar fasciitis, see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. You can get back on your feet and pain-free with the right approach.

FAQ

What is plantar fasciitis?

What are the symptoms of plantar fasciitis?

Symptoms of plantar fasciitis include:

Pain in the heel and arch of the foot
Difficulty standing on tiptoes
Pain that is worse in the morning or after periods of rest

What causes plantar fasciitis?

Several factors can contribute to the development of plantar fasciitis, including tight calf muscles, overpronation (flat feet), high arches, obesity, and occupational factors (standing for long periods).

How is plantar fasciitis treated?

Treatment options for plantar fasciitis may include stretching exercises, custom orthotics, physical therapy, night splints, and corticosteroid injections. It may take time for treatment to be effective, and it may involve a combination of these options.

Will I need an x-ray?

In most cases, an x-ray is not necessary to diagnose plantar fasciitis. Your podiatrist will likely be able to diagnose the condition based on your symptoms and a physical examination. However, in some cases, an x-ray may be recommended to rule out other conditions, such as a heel spur, that may be causing your heel pain.

What is a heel spur?

A heel spur is a bony protrusion that can form on the heel bone. It is often caused by the strain on the plantar fascia and can lead to heel pain. Sometimes, a heel spur may be visible on an x-ray and require additional treatment.

Can a corticosteroid injection help with plantar fasciitis?

In some cases, a corticosteroid injection may be recommended to help reduce inflammation in the plantar fascia and provide relief from plantar fasciitis. However, corticosteroid injections are unsuitable for everyone and should be used cautiously, as they can have potential side effects. Your podiatrist can determine if a corticosteroid injection is appropriate for you.

How can I prevent plantar fasciitis from returning?

To prevent plantar fasciitis from returning, it's important to wear proper footwear, maintain a healthy weight, stretch regularly, and avoid high-impact activities that may trigger flare-ups.