Plantar fasciitis is a condition that affects the tissue on the bottom of the foot, known as the plantar fascia. This tissue connects the heel bone to the toes and is responsible for supporting the arch of the foot. When the plantar fascia becomes inflamed or irritated, it can cause pain and discomfort in the foot and heel. Some common symptoms of plantar fasciitis include:
- Pain and discomfort in the heel and bottom of the foot, often worse in the morning or after prolonged periods of rest
- Stiffness in the foot and heel
- Swelling or tenderness in the foot and heel
- Difficulty bending the foot or toes upwards
- Difficulty standing on tiptoe
Fortunately, there are a number of treatments that can help to reduce pain and improve mobility – both at home and at a specialised clinic in Singapore. Some of the best treatments for plantar fasciitis include:
Rest and Ice
The first step in treating plantar fasciitis is to give your feet a rest. Avoid activities that put strain on your feet, such as running or standing for long periods of time. You can also apply ice to the affected area for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day, to reduce inflammation and pain.
Stretching
Stretching the muscles and tendons in the foot and lower leg can help to reduce strain on the plantar fascia and provide relief from pain. Some common stretches for plantar fasciitis include the calf stretch, the toe stretch, and the plantar fascia stretch.
Physical Therapy
A foot and ankle doctor can develop a tailored treatment plan to help improve flexibility and strength in the foot and lower leg. This can help to reduce strain on the plantar fascia and provide relief from pain. At times, he or she may also prescribe orthotic inserts. Wearing orthotic inserts in your shoes can help to support the foot and reduce strain on the plantar fascia.
Medications
Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help to reduce pain and inflammation caused by plantar fasciitis. In some cases, a doctor may prescribe stronger medications for more severe cases of the condition.
Seek Professional Help for Plantar Fasciitis in Singapore
To prevent plantar fasciitis, it is important to maintain a healthy weight, wear properly fitting shoes, and engage in regular stretching and strengthening exercises for the feet and lower legs. It is also important to avoid activities that put excessive strain on the feet, such as running on hard surfaces or wearing high heels for long periods of time.
With a third of sufferers reporting severe pain on a frequent basis, plantar fasciitis can be a debilitating condition. If you are experiencing pain and discomfort in the heel and bottom of your foot, it is important to seek help from an orthopaedic specialist. Searching for ‘foot specialist near me’? At OrthofootMD, our team of experienced foot and ankle specialists can provide a comprehensive evaluation and recommend the best treatment options for your specific needs. If needed, our surgeons can also perform surgery to help you reclaim your life and mobility. Don’t let plantar fasciitis hold you back – contact us today to schedule an appointment in Singapore.
OrthofootMD is conveniently located at Mount Elizabeth Novena Specialist Centre and Mount Alvernia Medical Centre, and opens from Monday to Saturday.
