Expert in Tampa, FL
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
The plantar fascia is a thick band of connective tissue that extends from the heel bone toward the toes. It helps support the arch of the foot and plays an important role in walking.
When the plantar fascia becomes irritated, patients may develop pain around the heel or along the bottom of the foot.
Plantar fasciitis commonly causes pain that is worse with the first steps after getting out of bed or after sitting for an extended period. Some patients experience improvement after walking for a short time, while others develop persistent pain throughout the day.
Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis
Symptoms can vary from person to person but may include:
- Sharp pain underneath or near the heel
- Pain along the bottom of the foot
- Pain that is worse with the first steps in the morning
- Pain after sitting or resting for an extended period
- Heel pain that worsens with prolonged standing or walking
- Tenderness along the bottom of the foot
- Pain that interferes with exercise or daily activities
- Persistent foot pain despite conservative treatment
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis can develop from repetitive stress and irritation of the plantar fascia.
Factors that may contribute to plantar fascia pain include:
- Prolonged standing or walking
- Running and other high-impact activities
- Changes in activity level
- Improper or poorly supportive footwear
- Tight calf muscles
- Abnormal foot mechanics
- Flat feet or high arches
- Repetitive stress on the heel and foot
However, not all persistent heel pain is caused by plantar fasciitis. Nerve irritation or other conditions affecting the foot and ankle can produce similar symptoms.
This is why an accurate evaluation is important when pain does not improve.
How is Plantar Fasciitis Diagnosed?
Diagnosis begins with a detailed history and physical examination.
At Tampa Pain MD, we evaluate:
- Location and characteristics of your pain
- Activities that make your symptoms better or worse
- Previous treatments and their effectiveness
- Foot and ankle movement
- Areas of tenderness
- Possible nerve involvement
- Other potential causes of heel and foot pain
When appropriate, imaging or ultrasound evaluation may be used to further assess the affected area.
In some patients, a diagnostic injection or nerve block may help determine whether a specific nerve is contributing to the pain.
Treatment Options for Persistent Plantar Fasciitis
Treatment depends on the underlying cause of your symptoms and how you have responded to previous treatments.
Depending on your individual condition, treatment options may include:
Why Choose Tampa Pain MD for Plantar Fasciitis?
At Tampa Pain MD, we specialize in advanced interventional pain management for patients with persistent and complex foot and ankle pain.
Dr. Arun Kalava is a double board-certified anesthesiologist and pain physician who completed a Mayo Clinic Acute Pain & Regional Anesthesia Fellowship. He specializes in ultrasound-guided nerve blocks and advanced minimally invasive pain procedures.
Our approach includes:
- Personalized evaluation
- Evidence-based interventional pain management
- Ultrasound-guided procedures
- Evaluation of peripheral nerve involvement
- Minimally invasive treatment options
- Focus on improving function and quality of life
- Opioid-free treatment approaches
Contact us
Contact Tampa Pain MD to schedule a comprehensive evaluation and learn more about your treatment options.
