Why Does It Take Plantar Fasciitis So Long to Heal?
Why does it take so long to heal?
When it comes to plantar fasciitis, the good news is that it usually responds well to basic treatment options such as rest and regular stretching exercises. These simple methods can often provide relief and promote healing. However, if you find that your heel pain continues for an extended period, it may be necessary for your healthcare provider to conduct further tests. This step is taken to rule out the possibility of an underlying condition contributing to your discomfort. By conducting these tests, your provider can ensure that the appropriate treatment plan is implemented to address your specific needs.
Untreated plantar fasciitis can lead to the development of heel spurs, which are calcifications that commonly occur. These small and bony growths can form on the underside of your foot, resulting in intense discomfort with each footstep.
Heel spurs are bony growths that often develop gradually over time and typically do not cause any pain until they suddenly become uncomfortable, especially during the initial steps in the morning or after standing for long durations. If you suspect that your heel pain might be a result of plantar fasciitis, it is advisable to consult with your doctor. They may suggest getting a CT scan or an MRI to diagnose the condition accurately. These imaging tests will help determine the presence of heel spurs and confirm the existence of plantar fasciitis.
Prevention:
Preventing plantar fasciitis can be done by avoiding activities that put stress on your heels and feet, such as running, dancing, and standing for long periods of time on hard surfaces. Also, maintaining a healthy weight to ease the pressure on your heels can help.
Stretching:
Regularly stretching your feet before and after exercise can prevent inflammation of the plantar fascia and improve your gait. This is important for preventing overuse injuries like plantar fasciitis and heel spurs that can develop over time, says Dr. Peden.
Wearing shoes that support your arch and cushion your heel can also help protect the plantar fascia from injury. Choose shoes that are appropriate for your activity level and are updated regularly to avoid wearing down the materials that absorb shock.
Surgery:
If simple treatments aren’t effective, your doctor may recommend steroid shots or injections into the plantar fascia to reduce pain. These shots aren’t a permanent solution, but they will lessen your symptoms and can help you return to activity more quickly.
In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair or replace a damaged tissue that has caused the inflammation. These surgeries can be performed by a podiatrist or orthopedic surgeon.
Nonsurgical therapies almost always resolve the pain and inflammation of plantar fasciitis. These treatments include over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), icing, and rest.
NSAIDs, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen, can reduce pain by reducing inflammation in your feet. Don’t use NSAIDs for more than 10 days in a row without consulting your doctor.
Rest:
The most important thing you can do to help relieve your plantar fasciitis is to rest your feet. You should take at least a week off from the activity or sport that causes your pain. This will allow your body to heal and recover from the stress it’s been under.
Ice the affected area:
Using ice packs to treat your plantar fasciitis is very effective, and can reduce the pain and inflammation for up to two weeks. You can use an ice pack that you cover in a towel or a frozen water bottle and then roll on the bottom of your foot.
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