Plantar fasciitis is a foot condition that occurs when the plantar fascia becomes inflamed or irritated. This can cause significant pain in your feet, making it difficult for you to walk. Heel spurs are bony growths that develop on the heel of your foot. They may lead to pain or inflammation, and conservative treatment at home can usually decrease the discomfort. At Cherry Creek Foot & Ankle Clinic in Denver, CO, Dr. Florin Costache and Dr. Kevin Derickson treat patients who experience heel pain from plantar fasciitis or heel spurs.

Plantar Fasciitis vs. Heel Spurs

Heel spurs are bony growths that don't go away, while plantar fasciitis is inflammation of the plantar fascia on the bottom of your foot. Heel spurs generally don't cause discomfort, but they can trigger pain if they become large enough. Plantar fasciitis often produces pain, even when you are at rest. Both plantar fasciitis and heel spurs can occur at the same time, and they are treated conservatively with rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medication, and stretching. You could benefit from talking to a podiatrist about ways to support the health of your feet when you experience pain. They can also optimize treatment by accurately diagnosing the cause of your discomfort.

Treatment for Plantar Fasciitis

Once the plantar fascia on the bottom of your foot becomes inflamed, the pain can make it nearly impossible to walk or run. Treatment involves gentle stretches that stretch out the fascia. Stretching helps bring nutrient-dense blood to your plantar fascia, making it easier for your tissue to heal. A podiatrist may prescribe foot braces to wear at night, which will keep your feet in a stretched position. Ice can help reduce inflammation, and medication is often used to ease the pain caused by plantar fasciitis. Your podiatrist might suggest physical therapy and encourage you to lose weight if needed. A lower body weight will ease the strain on your feet and ankles. Treatment takes time, and you will slowly find relief from the pain if you consistently perform the recommended stretches and exercises.

Plantar Fasciitis Treatment in Denver, CO

If you have pain in your feet that isn't going away after some ice and rest, it's time to contact a trusted podiatrist in Denver, CO. Call Cherry Creek Foot & Ankle Clinic at 303-355-1695, and make an appointment to meet with Dr. Florin Costache and Dr. Kevin Derickson. Get the treatment you need to manage plantar fasciitis or heel spurs, and get back to the activities you love.