Some people are more likely to get plantar fasciitis, including men aged 40-70 and people with high arches or flat feet. However, there are some factors you can control that may help prevent you from getting plantar fasciitis, including:

• Avoid running on uneven surfaces.
• Lose weight to take stress off your feet.
• Reduce long distance running if you notice symptoms.
• Stretch your Achilles tendon if it is tight.
• Wear shoes that provide good support.

Non-surgical treatment options will usually improve your symptoms of plantar fasciitis. Your doctor may recommend:

• Applying ice twice each day.
• Heel stretching exercises.
• Medication, such as ibuprofen, to reduce pain and swelling.
• Resting your feet for a week or more.
• Shoe inserts to pad the heel area.
• Splints, worn at night to stretch the fascia.
• Switching to shoes with better support.

Other, more advanced treatments, may be needed if your plantar fasciitis does not improve. These include:

• Steroid shots in your heel.
• Wearing a boot cast to keep pressure off your heel.
• Wearing custom made shoe inserts called orthotics.

If surgery is necessary, our physicians can provide a referral to one of our affiliated orthopaedic surgeons. For more information on surgical options, please contact us at askortho@stelizabeth.com.