When people experience pain in their feet or ankles, it is common for them to ignore them. They are simply unaware of what long-term foot pain can do to their overall health. Plantar fasciitis is probably the most common type of heel pain that goes ignored and undiagnosed. The plantar fascia is a flat tissue or ligament that connects your toes to your heel bone. It helps to keep the arch of your foot supported.
If you strain this area of your foot, your heel will become swollen and inflamed. This will make it extremely difficult to walk or stand. This condition is most common in individuals who are on their feet quite a bit such as soldiers or athletes.
What causes it?
This condition is caused by the straining of your ligament that supports the arch of your foot. Continuous strain can cause your ligament to tear which can cause intense pain and excessive swelling. People who typically experience plantar fasciitis are people who:
* Have flat feet or high arches
* Whose feet roll inward when they walk
* You are currently overweight
* You wear shoes that do not fit properly
* You stand or walk for long periods of time
* Your Achilles tendon or calf muscles are tight
When do you experience pain?
Someone with this condition traditionally feels pain as soon as they step down out of their beds in the morning. Some people start to experience less pain when they take several steps simultaneously. It becomes very difficult for them to climb up stairs or stand for long periods of time. Sometimes other nerve problems such as tarsal tunnel syndrome can cause this type of pain as well.
When to see a doctor
If you are experiencing consistent pain in your heel then it is important that you see a specialist in plantar fasciitis in Chicago such as a podiatrist. Once you see a doctor they will go over your health history and any injuries or illnesses you may have experienced. They will ask you about your symptoms and how often you are experiencing the pain. They will most likely perform an x-ray if they suspect there may be problems with the bones in your feet or that you may have plantar fasciitis.
It is important that if you are experiencing any type of foot or ankle pain that you see a podiatrist as soon as possible and do not ignore your symptoms.
If you think you may have plantar fasciitis in Chicago, Kondiles Chicagoland Footcare can help. Visit their website to learn more about their services.
