Whether you hiked Stairway-to-Heaven, finished a 100-yard dash, or simply walked down the block, plantar-fasciitis is more common than realized. One of the most common causes of foot pain or heel pain in Oahu is plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a large band of tissue that goes from the calcaneus (heel bone) to each toe. It provides support and elevates the arch. Plantar fasciitis is most common in women ages 40-60, but it is also seen in the younger population, especially in people who spend a lot of time on their feet such as dancers, runners and even active duty military personnel.
People with plantar fasciitis typically have pain in their heel or arch and the pain is the worst with the first step out of bed in the morning. The pain can be sharp with activity and then is typically dull at rest. Some factors that put people at an increased risk for plantar fasciitis include obesity, activities that require prolonged standing or jumping, flat feet, and poor range of motion in the ankle.
There are many different treatment plans for plantar fasciitis at Oahu Spine & Rehab. Research has shown that in the acute phase (first 4 weeks) the best treatment is NSAIDs such as Motrin or naproxen, plus ice, massage and stretching of the Achilles tendon and plantar fascia. Other effective treatments include heel cups and/or arch supports that can be purchased at any drug store. It is always best to try cheaper over the counter shoe inserts before rushing off to spend $100’s on expensive custom orthotics, although often times a patient’s insurance (Tricare, Medicare, HMSA) might provide Durable Medical Equipment coverage, so make sure to check with your provider.
Taping, such as Kinesio Tape is also very effective in the early stages of plantar fasciitis. If the pain persists despite the above treatment options the patient might be a candidate for a steroid injection. Night splints can also be effective. These are are worn on the feet at night and can be purchased at Walgreens off of Oneawa street or at CVS off of Kailua road next to Whole Foods in Kailua. By keeping the foot in a neutral position at night, patients often find they have less pain in the morning. Plantar fasciitis is a frustrating injury and can plague anyone living in Oahu.
There are a lot of treatment options but not all work for everyone, which is why the providers at OSR feel that an integrated approach will provide the greatest outcome and relief. It is important to be thoroughly evaluated by a medical provider to promptly get the most effective and appropriate care. The earlier an integrated plantar fasciitis treatment plan is started, the more successful the outcome. Please feel free to schedule a complimentary consultation with us as soon as possible!
REFERENCES
1. Available at: https://www.uptodate.com/contents/plantar-fasciitis?source=preview&language=en-US&anchor=H5#H5. Accessed May 14, 2014
2. Berbrayer D, Fredericson M. Update on evidence-based treatments for plantar fasciopathy. PM R. 2014;6(2):159-69.