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Foot Notes

If The Shoe Doesn't Fit
August 14, 2007 - Morning Call Article

An estimated 15 percent of all adult foot complaints involve plantar fasciitis or heel pain that is due to chronic inflammation of the connective tissue between the heel bone and toes. Being overweight and wearing inappropriate shoes are the most common causes. The pain is most noticeable after getting out of bed in the morning, decreasing after a few minutes and returning as time on the feet increases.

Initial treatment includes anti-inflammatory medications, padding and strapping the foot, and physical therapy. Patients also should stretch calf muscles regularly, use over-the-counter arch supports and heel cushions, limit extensive physical activities, and avoid wearing flat shoes or walking barefoot. Most patients with plantar facilities respond to nonsurgical treatment within six weeks. However, surgery is sometimes necessary to relieve severe, persistent pain.

Heel pain may also be caused by inflammation of the Achilles tendon, bursitis, arthritis, gout, stress fractures or nerve irritation. Therefore, diagnosis by a podiatric foot and ankle surgeon to rule out other causes is advised.

Adam J. Teichman, DPM, A.A.C.F.A.S., is a podiatric foot and ankle surgeon with a practice in Allentown