Pursuing The Best Plantar Fasciitis Treatment San Francisco Can Provide Is A Wise Course Of Action

By Gloria Mason


Plantar fasciitis is an inflammatory condition that affects the bottom of the feet. It results in acute pain that covers the surface of both feet. It is especially painful in the area of the heel. Those suffering from this affliction generally have difficulty engaging in activities that put pressure on the soles, such as running or walking. When in need of quality plantar fasciitis treatment San Francisco patients should take their time choosing a physician.

Many individuals who suffer from the aforementioned disorder state that the soles of their feet are painful even when they are off the floor. The disorder currently has no absolute cure, but patients have their choice of a variety of treatments. Each therapy will vary in effectiveness from one patient to the next. Some of the options from which a person can choose include painkillers, orthopedic footwear, and topical ointments.

In many cases, the symptoms of the aforementioned condition can be lessened through physical therapy. The latter may include stretches, ultrasound, and a simple measures such as ice placed in the affected area. However, if symptoms do not improve within six weeks, an individual's doctor may move onto another type of treatment.

Medication is often used to treat this disorder. Drugs such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory and opioid analgesics are frequently prescribed. However, certain medications, such as those with the aforementioned opioid-based can be habit forming. Therefore, most physicians will not prescribe such medications for long-term use. In certain cases, it is necessary for one to try several different therapies, or a combination of different treatments in order to discover the one that is most helpful for his or her specific symptoms.

Custom-made shoe inserts are often quite helpful in controlling the symptoms of plantar fasciitis. It is important to understand, however, that such footwear requires a prescription. This is because the shape of each individual's foot is different, and therefore what may feel comfortable to one person may not be best for the next.

Often, when other treatments fail, a night splint is prescribed. This device is designed to hold the foot with the toes pointed up, and keep the ankle at a ninety degree angle. This position results in a gentle, continuous stretch to the fascia of the foot, which is the part that typically becomes inflamed in those suffering from this condition.

Many health care professionals are of the opinion that numerous plantar fasciitis cases are the result of improperly fitting shoes. For this reason, importance should be placed on selecting shoes that fit appropriately, such as those that offer sufficient space on all sides so that heel or sole pressure is not experienced when an individual's feet swell during the daytime. Those who are not sure which shoes to purchase should discuss the matter with a physician.

Regardless of the specific plantar fasciitis treatment San Francisco patients decide to seek, they should not make the decision without the assistance of a doctor. A physician or podiatrist will usually try to determine the underlying reason for the disorder, and then prescribe the appropriate treatment. Those suffering from this malady should schedule an appointment with a qualified medical professional.




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