Friday, January 31, 2014

Information On Plantar Fasciitis Treatment San Francisco

By Serena Price


Plantar fasciitis is a condition that involves inflammation and pain of thick bands of tissue, known as plantar fascia. These tissues run across the bottom of the feet and connect the heel bone to toes. Heel pain is more often than not caused by this condition. One will experience stabbing pain that occurs with the first morning steps. When considering plantar fasciitis treatment San Francisco residents have many options that are effective.

Roughly 90 percent or more of people with the condition can have it cured after several months of undergoing conservative treatment. One of the most common forms of conservative treatment is the use of medications. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like naproxen and ibuprofen are known to reduce inflammation and ease pain but never really treat causes of the condition. There also are corticosteroids which are delivered to the body through iontophoresis. This is whereby the solution is applied to the skin over the painful area. The medication is absorbed through non-painful electric current.

Another method of delivery of the solution is injection. Using multiple injections is never recommended since it could weaken the plantar fascia, causing it to rupture. In addition, this could lead to shrinking of the fat pad that covers the heel bone. For more accurate placement of the injection, there is sometimes the use of ultrasound guidance.

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.

Night splints are an effective technique that can also be employed. Doctors will recommend that patients wear splints which help in stretching the arch and calf of feet during the night when they are sleeping. The Achilles tendon and fascia are held in a lengthened position throughout the night so that stretching is facilitated. Distribution of pressure in feet can also offer relief and is done by the use of orthotics which are off the shelf supports.

There are instances when the more conservative measures fail to work, in which case other techniques have to be used. The first option is extracorporeal shock wave therapy in which there is sound waves are directed at the area where pain is experienced. This stimulates healing. It can come with side effects such as bruises, swelling, pain, numbness or tingling. Its consistency levels are however 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 should go for treatment in time, lest they expose themselves to complications. Without prompt treatment, one may experience chronic pain that disables them from going about their daily chores. Foot, knee, back and hip problems may also arise because the condition has an effect on the way one walks.




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