Foot Taping May Provide Relief from Painful Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is a form of heel pain that is quite common. It occurs when the plantar fascia tissue that connects the heel with the toes becomes damaged and sometimes torn through overuse. Plantar fasciitis causes pain and swelling in the tissue, which is worse in the morning, because the plantar fascia tissue tightens while you are sleeping. A podiatrist deals with cases of plantar fasciitis every day and has many forms of treatments to alleviate the painful symptoms of this condition. Your podiatrist may tape your foot with a rigid adhesive sports strapping tape to reduce the stretch and strain on your plantar fascia. Foot taping is a very safe treatment method, which sometimes may provide immediate relief. If you have heel pain, get your condition diagnosed by a podiatrist and discuss whether foot taping might be an appropriate treatment method.

Plantar fasciitis can be very painful and inconvenient. If you are experiencing heel pain or symptoms of plantar fasciitis, contact one of our podiatrists  from Foot Health Center of Merrimack Valley. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, known as the plantar fascia, and causes mild to severe heel pain.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

• Excessive running
• Non-supportive shoes
• Overpronation
• Repeated stretching and tearing of the plantar fascia

How Can It Be Treated?

• Conservative measures – anti-inflammatories, ice packs, stretching exercises, physical therapy, orthotic devices
• Shockwave therapy – sound waves are sent to the affected area to facilitate healing and are usually used for chronic cases of plantar fasciitis
• Surgery – usually only used as a last resort when all else fails. The plantar fascia can be surgically detached from the heel

While very treatable, plantar fasciitis is definitely not something that should be ignored. Especially in severe cases, speaking to your doctor right away is highly recommended to avoid complications and severe heel pain. Your podiatrist can work with you to provide the appropriate treatment options tailored to your condition.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in North Andover, and Tewksbury, MA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.