Plantar Fasciitis Specialist
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Foot & Ankle Center of Ocala
Robert F Linn, DPM
Podiatrist & Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Surgery & Lower Extremity Trauma located in West End of the Jasmine Plaza, Ocala, FL
Each year, more than 2 million Americans visit a podiatrist due to heel pain caused by plantar fasciitis. With early intervention and treatment, it’s possible to manage and prevent it from getting worse. At Foot & Ankle Center of Ocala, podiatrist Robert Linn Jr., DPM, works with people of all ages to diagnose and treat plantar fasciitis. To schedule an appointment at the Ocala, Florida, practice, book online, or call the office to speak with a team member today.
Plantar Fasciitis Q & A
What is plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is an overuse injury that causes small tears in the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs from your toes to your heel. Over time, these tears become inflamed, causing excruciating heel pain and mobility problems.
Anyone can develop plantar fasciitis, but several factors may increase your risk, including high-impact activities, like running and jogging, or being overweight.
What are the symptoms of plantar fasciitis?
The most noticeable symptom of plantar fasciitis is sharp, shooting, or burning pain at the base of your heel. Usually, plantar fasciitis pain is worse in the morning, right after waking up.
Other factors that can trigger a flare-up include long periods of standing or intense exercise.
Why should I seek treatment for plantar fasciitis?
If you regularly experience heel pain, don’t wait to seek professional help. When left untreated, plantar fasciitis may result in chronic discomfort, making it difficult to exercise, work, or participate in other activities. Plantar fasciitis can also affect your posture and gait, increasing the risk of back, leg, and hip problems.
How is plantar fasciitis diagnosed?
To diagnose plantar fasciitis, Dr. Linn reviews your health history, asks about your symptoms and lifestyle, and gently presses on your affected foot to pinpoint areas of warmth, swelling, or tenderness. If he suspects another problem, like a stress fracture, is the source of your pain, he might also order X-rays or an MRI.
How is plantar fasciitis treated?
Treatment for plantar fasciitis depends on the intensity of your symptoms and their effect on your ability to work, exercise, or perform other routine tasks. Whenever possible, Dr. Linn recommends conservative treatments like stretching, rest, and ice. You might also benefit from losing weight, wearing supportive shoes, or trying low-impact sports.
If your pain persists or gets worse, more invasive treatments might be necessary, including:
- Corticosteroid injections
- Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT)
- Ultrasonic tissue repair
- Custom orthotics
- Physical therapy
If all other treatments fail, Dr. Linn might recommend surgery, but only as a last resort.
To further explore treatments for plantar fasciitis, request a consultation at Foot & Ankle Center of Ocala. Book online, or call the office to speak with a team member today.