Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of heel pain in runners, but anyone can develop this painful condition and have it curtail their activities. Dr. Scott O’Connor at Premier Podiatry has extensive experience treating plantar fasciitis and can help end your foot pain using various conservative treatments. At his three offices in Normal, Pontiac, and Bloomington, Illinois, you get compassionate care and individualized attention that get you back on your feet. To schedule an appointment, use online booking or call the nearest office today.
The plantar fascia is a strong band of connective tissue that runs along the bottom of your feet, where it connects your heel to your toes. It supports the arch and helps absorb shock.
Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia becomes irritated and inflamed. It’s often caused by:
Heel pain is the primary symptom of plantar fasciitis. You may also experience pain in the arch of your foot or anywhere along the plantar fascia.
The pain is typically worse after resting because the plantar fascia tightens and the sudden stretching when you take your first steps causes pain.
Dr. O’Connor develops a customized treatment plan to reduce inflammation, heal the plantar fascia, and prevent future problems. Your treatment may include any of the following:
Depending on the severity of your plantar fasciitis, you may need to immobilize your foot to give the plantar fascia time to heal.
Customized shoe inserts can correct problems that contribute to your plantar fasciitis, support your heel, and protect the plantar fascia from further stress. Your doctor also evaluates your shoes to ensure you have adequate arch support.
Kinesiology taping decreases strain on your plantar fascia and relieves pain.
Dr. O’Connor provides physical therapy to stretch and strengthen the plantar fascia, calf muscles, and other supporting tissues. Structured exercise helps you recover from plantar fasciitis and prevents it from recurring.
The K-Laser gently delivers specific wavelengths of laser light that promote healing, increase circulation, and reduce inflammation and pain.
When your pain persists, Dr. O’Connor may recommend corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation. He also offers cutting-edge treatment in the form of AmnioFix® injections.
Besides standard cortisone injection, AmnioFix contains dehydrated human amniotic membrane, which is a rich source of proteins called growth factors. When they’re injected into your foot, growth factors stimulate healing and new tissue growth.
Conservative methods resolve plantar fasciitis for most patients. But if your heel pain persists, you can count on Dr. O’Connor’s surgical expertise to release tension on your plantar fascia.
Don’t tolerate ongoing heel pain: Call the nearest Premier Podiatry office in Normal, Pontiac, or Eureka, Illinois, or book an appointment online for a professional evaluation and treatment.
