Sunday, February 16, 2014

Facts About Plantar Fasciitis Treatment San Francisco

By Serena Price


Plantar fasciitis is whereby thick bands of tissue known as plantar fascia get inflamed and develop some pain. The tissues run at the bottom of feet while connecting the heel bone to the toes. Mostly it is this condition that causes pain in heels. This will be mostly experienced in the morning with the first steps taken by the individual. When going for plantar fasciitis treatment San Francisco residents should be conversant with the procedures involved.

As much as 90 percent of individuals suffering from this condition will get relief after undergoing conservative treatments for a few months. One common treatment option is use of drugs and medications. One of these is non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. The drugs ibuprofen and naproxen relieve pain and reduce inflammation. They however never really treat underlying problems. There is also the drug corticosteroid that is taken through iontophoresis. This will involve applying of corticosteroid solution over the painful area. The absorption process is achieved by electric current that is not painful.

Injection is also a technique that can be used for applying the solution. The use of multiple injections is not advisable as it is known to weaken plantar fascia and thereby causing it to rupture. This would also have the effect of making the fat pad that covers the heel bone to shrink. For the injection to be placed more accurately, ultrasound guidance may be used.

The use of stretching and strengthening exercises will provide relief from symptoms. Specialized devices may also be used. An example of the exercises is physical therapy. Physical therapists will instruct their patients on series of exercises to stretch the Achilles tendon and strengthen lower muscles of the legs. This will in the long run stabilize the heels and ankles. Patients will also be taught how to apply athletic taping for supporting the bottom of the foot.

The use of night splints is also an effective technique. The doctor or physical therapist may advice patients to wear splints that stretch the calf and arch of the foot while they are sleeping. The plantar fascia and Achilles will be held in a lengthened position overnight in a way that stretching is facilitated. There can also be prescription of off-the-shelf supports known as orthotics. These will help in even distribution of pressure to feet.

In some cases, the conservative techniques fail to be effective and thus more advanced methods have to be used. One of these procedures is extracorporeal shock wave therapy. In this, sound waves get directed to the painful area so that healing is stimulated. This procedure could lead to tingling, swelling, pain, numbness and bruises. Its level of consistency is still in doubt.

Surgery is also an option that has been considered in some cases. There are persons that will need to surgical operation for detachment of the plantar fascia from the heel bone. This is the last option when the pain is very severe and every other technique has failed. Surgery could lead to weakening of the arch in the feet.

When considering plantar fasciitis treatment San Francisco residents ought to know complications involved when one decides to ignore the condition. The chronic pain that results will hinder their daily activities. They may also develop foot, knee, hip or back problems since the condition changes the way one walks.




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