The plantar fascia is the band of tissue that connects the heel to the toes. When this tissue becomes inflamed, it can cause a painful foot condition called plantar fasciitis. The pain caused by plantar fasciitis is most pronounced in the morning when a person gets out of bed, but it can cause problems all day long. If you have been experiencing heel pain for an extended period of time, one of the best things you can do is see a podiatrist. A podiatrist will prescribe a treatment plan that will help relieve the inflammation and lead to a full recovery. Some common forms of treatment for plantar fasciitis include:

Medication for Pain and Inflammation

One of the first courses of treatment for plantar fasciitis is the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication to help manage the pain and reduce the inflammation in the plantar fascia. Your podiatrist may prescribe a high dose of medication to be taken over the course of several weeks. Regular use of NSAID medication can help you manage the condition and continue day to day activities while the plantar fascia fully heals. Let your doctor know if the extended use of NSAIDs causes any adverse side effects.

Steroids

While you are taking NSAIDs for plantar fasciitis, your podiatrist will monitor your foot and your level of pain. If the NSAIDS are having little to no effect, your podiatrist may suggest steroid injections. Steroids are very effective against inflammation, so a steroid injection in your foot can help your plantar fasciitis a lot. In many cases, a steroid injection near the heel of your effected foot can help provide pain relief for several weeks. 

Targeted Physical Therapy

Plantar fasciitis is difficult to treat because it can take weeks or even months for the inflammation of the plantar fascia to subside. During this time period, specific exercises can be highly effective in reducing pain and making it easier to walk normally. Your podiatrist may prescribe regular physical therapy for an extended period of time. While attending physical therapy, pay careful attention to the exercises your physical therapist shows you, and make sure that you continue to do the exercises at home.

Surgery

Surgery is usually a last resort when it comes to treating plantar fasciitis, However, if you have been living with the condition for months and there is no sign of improvement, surgery may be your best option. Luckily, surgery to treat plantar fasciitis is an outpatient procedure, but you may have to wear a boot and avoid bearing weight on your foot for a set period of time.