If you’re experiencing symptoms of plantar fasciitis, various treatment options are available to help improve pain and promote healing. Some of the common remedies to treat plantar fasciitis include anti-inflammatory medicines that can be easily bought off the shelves from pharmacies. For severe cases, medical treatment can be required where medical professionals will prescribe specialized medication, such as Corticosteroid injections or EPAT.
Here are a few of the common treatments that doctors prescribe to patients who suffer from Plantar Fasciitis.
1. Over-The-Counter NSAIDs
Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with plantar fasciitis. These medications are readily available at pharmacies and can be taken orally according to the instructions given on the back of the packaging.
2. Rest
Resting is one of the most effective ways to treat the affected foot. It is crucial for allowing the inflamed plantar fascia to heal. Avoid high-impact activities that could put pressure on the pain, such as running or jumping. Opt for low-impact exercises like yoga or tai-chi to maintain fitness while giving your foot time to recover.
3. Icing Your Foot
Applying ice to the affected area is a common way to reduce inflammation and improve pain. Use an ice pack or a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a towel and apply it to the bottom of your foot for 15-20 minutes multiple times a day, especially after activity or when experiencing pain.
4. Wearing Supportive Shoes
Proper footwear plays a significant role in improving plantar fasciitis. Choose shoes with adequate arch support, cushioning, and a firm heel counter to reduce strain on the plantar fascia. Avoid wearing high heels or poor quality footwear with inadequate support as they may affect your foot and increase the pain and the associated symptoms.
5. Orthotics
Orthotic insoles for Plantar Fasciitis can provide additional support and cushioning to your feet, redistributing pressure and reducing strain on the plantar fascia. You can purchase over-the-counter orthotics or get custom-made ones prescribed by your doctor for a more tailored fit.
6. Bed Rest
In severe cases of plantar fasciitis, bed rest may be necessary to allow the foot to rest and heal properly. This may involve wearing a night splint that stretches the plantar fascia while you sleep or using a walking boot to limit movement during the day.
7. Massage and Stretching
Massaging the sole of your foot with a tennis ball or a frozen water bottle can help relieve tension in the plantar fascia and surrounding muscles. Additionally, performing gentle stretching exercises for the calf muscles and plantar fascia can improve flexibility and reduce pain.
8. Corticosteroids
Corticosteroid injections may be recommended for individuals with persistent or severe plantar fasciitis that does not respond to conservative treatments. These injections can provide temporary relief by reducing inflammation and pain, but they are not suitable for long-term use due to potential side effects.
9. Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP)
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy involves injecting a concentrated solution of platelets from your own blood into the affected area to promote tissue repair and regeneration. PRP therapy has shown promising results in treating chronic plantar fasciitis, particularly in cases that have not responded to other treatments.
10. Extracorporeal Pulse Activation Technology (EPAT)
Extracorporeal pulse activation technology (EPAT), also known as shockwave therapy, utilizes high-energy acoustic waves to stimulate healing and reduce pain in the affected area. This non-invasive treatment option has been shown to effectively improve symptoms of plantar fasciitis with minimal risk of side effects.
11. Percutaneous Needle Tenotomy
Percutaneous needle tenotomy, or dry needling, involves inserting a thin needle into the plantar fascia to break up scar tissue and stimulate the healing process. This procedure can be performed under local anesthesia and is often combined with other treatments for enhanced effectiveness.
12. Plantar Fasciitis Surgery
In rare cases where non-invasive treatments fail to provide relief, surgical intervention may be considered as a last resort. Two common surgical procedures for plantar fasciitis include:
Gastrocnemius Recession
Gastrocnemius recession involves lengthening the calf muscles to reduce tension on the plantar fascia. By releasing tightness in the calf muscles, this procedure aims to alleviate strain on the plantar fascia and relieve associated symptoms.
Plantar Fascial Release
Plantar fascia release surgery involves partially cutting the plantar fascia to relieve tension and allow for faster healing. This procedure is typically reserved for severe cases of plantar fasciitis that have not responded to other treatments and may require a period of rehabilitation post-surgery.