The Modalities Of Plantar Fasciitis Treatment San Francisco Residents Should Know About

By Angela Briggs


There are a number of available options for plantar fasciitis treatment san francisco residents can consider if they hope to get rid of this problem. The treatments are focussed on a number of objectives that include, among others, pain reduction. The pain is said to be worst in the first few hours after waking up and improves as the day progresses. It may incapacitate the patient significantly if not properly taken care of. Another major objective is the restoration of function.

This condition is fairly common hence there is no need to worry. It is especially common in athletes (runners). The reason for the high incidence is believed to be due to repeated strain on planter fascia, a thick band of tissue that covers a large part of the soles of feet. It is also common in overweight individuals, pregnant women and persons that put on improper foot wear for long periods of time. The incidence is highest between the ages of 40 and 60 years.

The general advice is that affected persons should seek treatment as soon as they start experiencing the symptoms. One of the easiest things to do is to have adequate rest and to avoid physical activities that may make the pain worse or aggravate the inflammation. Hard surfaces like concrete should be avoided as much as possible. Severe pain can be abated by the use of ice packs albeit temporarily.

Conservative treatments are quite effective as long as the patient adheres to the prescription. Statistics show that about 90% of persons on conservative management recover completely within about one year. The available modes of management are often used singly or in combination to optimize the response. This is mainly determined by the severity of symptoms and the patient response to the various therapies. Surgery should only be considered when the conservative methods fail.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, NSAIDS are used for pain relief but the effects vary from one person to another. The effect is often short term which means that they have to be taken frequently. As a result some of the patients may suffer from the adverse effects of these drugs that include, among others, peptic ulcer disease and renal disease. Commonly used options in this category include aspirin, naproxen and ibuprofen. These drugs are available as pills and creams that can be applied over the affected area.

Proper shoe wear is a very important preventive as well as curative measure. One should ensure that they use shoes that will help in shock absorption and maintenance of foot arches. Properly maintained foot arches eliminate undue pressure on the heel. Cushioning also helps in reducing the pressure on the heel and so does the use of orthotics. Cushioning should always be done for both feet.

Physical exercise plays a very significant role in the management. Simple routines done on a daily basis are just enough. These include toe stretches, calf stretches and towel stretches. Done, regularly, these exercises help in the maintenance of proper arches and increase ligament flexibility.

If undergoing plantar fasciitis treatment san francisco residents should know that the rate of recovery is not always the same. It takes a short period of time in some people and a little longer in others. Regular clinic visits are necessary to assess the progress.




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