Seeking The Best Plantar Fasciitis Treatment San Francisco Offers Is A Worthwhile Endeavor

By Gloria Mason


Plantar fasciitis is a disorder of the bottom of the feet that results in acute inflammation and pain spanning the entire sole of each foot. The disorder is especially troublesome in the heel area. Individuals who suffer from this condition typically find running, walking, and other physical activities challenging, especially those where pressure is placed on the bottoms of the feet. When in need of plantar fasciitis treatment San Francisco patients must carefully select a qualified professional.

Many individuals who suffer from the aforementioned disorder state that the soles of their feet are painful even when they are off the floor. The disorder currently has no absolute cure, but patients have their choice of a variety of treatments. Each therapy will vary in effectiveness from one patient to the next. Some of the options from which a person can choose include painkillers, orthopedic footwear, and topical ointments.

In numerous instances, physical therapy can help to lessen the symptoms of the aforementioned disorder. This type of therapy may include ultrasound, stretching exercises, and basic measures such as icing the affected area. Other types of treatment may be recommended by the person's physician, however, if symptoms do not subside within 6 weeks of beginning therapy.

Medication is often used to treat this disorder. Drugs such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory and opioid analgesics are frequently prescribed. However, certain medications, such as those with the aforementioned opioid-based can be habit forming. Therefore, most physicians will not prescribe such medications for long-term use. In certain cases, it is necessary for one to try several different therapies, or a combination of different treatments in order to discover the one that is most helpful for his or her specific symptoms.

Custom-made shoe inserts are often quite helpful in controlling the symptoms of plantar fasciitis. It is important to understand, however, that such footwear requires a prescription. This is because the shape of each individual's foot is different, and therefore what may feel comfortable to one person may not be best for the next.

Many times, when other therapies fail, a doctor will prescribe a night splint. Such splints are manufactured to keep the foot in a position where the toes are pointing up, but the ankle remains at a 90 degree angle. The fascia of the foot is where inflammation typically occurs, and the aforementioned position creates a continuous, gentle stretch in this area.

Numerous healthcare professionals agree that a certain number of plantar fasciitis cases occur due to ill fitting footwear. Therefore, it is very important for all individuals to ensure that they choose shoes that fit appropriately and offer adequate space on all sides so that when their feet swell throughout the day, pressure is not put on the soles or heels. Those who are not sure about which type of footwear to purchase should ask a podiatrist or physician.

Regardless of which plantar fasciitis treatment San Francisco residents choose, this decision should be made with the help of a professional. A podiatrist or doctor will typically attempt to determine the underlying cause of the condition, and subsequently recommend the proper treatment. Anyone suffering from this disorder should speak to a qualified health care practitioner.




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