Plantar Fasciitis in Fairfax and Serving Vienna & Falls Church, VA
Understanding Plantar Fasciitis: What It Is and How We Can Help
At Virginia Foot and Ankle Center, located in Fairfax and serving Vienna and Falls Church, VA, Dr. My Hoa Kaas and Dr. Jay Ryan specialize in helping patients find relief from foot pain, including plantar fasciitis. If you’ve been waking up with sharp pain in your heel or feeling discomfort after standing for long periods, you might be dealing with plantar fasciitis. The good news? You don’t have to live with the pain. At Virginia Foot and Ankle Center, we’re here to help you get back on your feet.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. It happens when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, becomes inflamed. This tissue acts like a shock absorber, supporting the arch of your foot, but overuse or strain can cause tiny tears, leading to pain and stiffness.
The pain is often worst in the morning when you take your first steps out of bed or after sitting for a long time. It can feel like a sharp stabbing sensation in your heel or a dull ache that lingers throughout the day. While plantar fasciitis is common among runners, it can affect anyone, especially those who spend a lot of time on their feet or wear unsupportive shoes.
How We Treat Plantar Fasciitis
At Virginia Foot and Ankle Center, Dr. Kaas and Dr. Ryan take a personalized approach to treating plantar fasciitis. The first step is understanding your symptoms and lifestyle to pinpoint what’s causing the strain on your plantar fascia. From there, we’ll work together to create a treatment plan that fits your needs.
For many patients, conservative treatments like stretching exercises, custom orthotics, and physical therapy can make a big difference. These options help reduce inflammation, improve flexibility, and support your foot’s natural structure. If the pain persists, we may explore advanced treatments like corticosteroid injections or shockwave therapy to promote healing.
Why It’s Important to Address Heel Pain
Ignoring plantar fasciitis can lead to more serious issues, like chronic pain or changes in how you walk, which can affect other parts of your body. Treating it early not only helps you feel better faster but also prevents long-term complications. Our goal is to relieve your pain and get you moving comfortably again.