Our feet comprise a complex structure of muscles, tissue, and bones. The long tissue that connects the heel with the toes is called the plantar fascia, which provides support to the foot and enables it to maintain its balance when we walk, jog or run.

However, overexertion of this tissue causes inflammation and severe pain in the heels – a condition known as Plantar Fasciitis. If care is not appropriate, damage to this tissue could be long-term resulting in deterioration and weakness of the foot muscles.

At Joseph Stuto, DPM we recommend the following home treatments; however, consulting your podiatrist is the safest and most secure solution:

• Applying ice to the inflamed area soothes the tissue and eases the pain.
• Resting reduces inflammation and pain; therefore, it is important to take breaks between your walking and running routines.
• Slight exercises to stretch and strengthen the lower legs, especially the calf and ankles, are beneficial for the health of your feet.
• Appropriate footwear is crucial to ensure that your feet are provided with adequate support and are not exposed to severe shocks.
• You might need orthotic insert devices to secure the position of your feet so that they are not under excessive and unnecessary stress.
• Physical therapy has proved to be quite beneficial in reducing heel pains and strengthening the muscles of your feet. It also helps in improving blood circulation which is known to speed up the healing of any damaged tissue.
• In extreme cases, one could consider the possibility of undergoing surgery to repair and rebuild your foot’s structure.

We strongly urge you to get proper guidance and treatment from our expert Dr. Joseph Stuto who is trained to examine, diagnose and treat all kinds of foot and ankle conditions. Be it fungal infections, bunions, ingrown toenails, gout, injuries, even neuropathy due to diabetes, and a lot more; we have solutions and we are here to help. Call us today at (718) 624-7537 or (718) 567-1403 for healthy and happy feet!