Plantar Fasciitis Treatment in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Gilbert, and Mesa

The plantar fascia is a thick, fibrous band of connective tissue running along the bottom of your foot. It supports your foot’s arch and plays a critical role in absorbing the forces of walking and running. When this tissue becomes inflamed or injured, it can lead to plantar fasciitis—a common and often painful condition that can make every step uncomfortable.

If you are struggling with heel pain, consult a pain doctor at The Pain Experts of Arizona. With locations serving Phoenix, Scottsdale, Gilbert, and Mesa, we specialize in diagnosing and treating plantar fasciitis to help you walk comfortably again.

Understanding Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is typically caused by excessive strain or repetitive stress on the plantar fascia. This leads to microtears and inflammation, often resulting in sharp, stabbing pain near the heel. Pain is usually worse first thing in the morning or after periods of rest but may subside with light activity only to return after prolonged standing or walking.

While anyone can develop plantar fasciitis, certain factors increase the risk:

• Long-distance running or ballet

• Obesity

• Tight calf muscles

• Abnormal walking patterns or foot mechanics (such as high arches or flat feet)

• Prolonged standing or walking on hard surfaces

• Age-related tissue degeneration

Women are slightly more likely than men to experience plantar fasciitis, and it is common among pregnant individuals due to added weight and ligament changes.

Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis

The most common symptom is a sharp pain at the bottom of the foot, near the heel. This pain typically:

• Is worse after waking up or after long periods of inactivity

• Increases following exercise rather than during activity

• Can become chronic if left untreated

If your foot pain interferes with daily activities, seek care from a pain specialist at our Phoenix, Scottsdale, Gilbert, or Mesa locations.

Diagnosis

A thorough examination by a pain clinic provider typically involves:

• Reviewing your medical history and lifestyle habits

• Assessing your symptoms, including duration, frequency, and severity

• Evaluating your walking gait and foot structure

• Palpating the foot for tenderness and abnormalities

While plantar fasciitis can often be diagnosed clinically, imaging studies like X-rays or MRIs may be ordered to exclude other causes of heel pain, such as stress fractures or nerve entrapments.

Treatment Options

At The Pain Experts of Arizona, our multidisciplinary approach focuses on relieving pain, promoting healing, and preventing recurrence. Treatment options include:

• Rest and activity modification

• Gentle foot stretches and calf muscle exercises

• Ice therapy to reduce inflammation

• Over-the-counter pain medications

• Physical therapy to improve foot biomechanics

• Orthotics or custom shoe inserts for better arch support

• Night splints or walking boots for severe cases

• Steroid injections to reduce inflammation

• Extracorporeal shock wave therapy to stimulate healing

• Ultrasonic tissue repair for persistent cases

Surgery is rarely necessary but may be considered for severe, treatment-resistant plantar fasciitis.

For patients in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Gilbert, and Mesa, our experienced pain doctors create personalized care plans designed to alleviate foot pain and restore mobility.

Preventing Plantar Fasciitis

While not all cases are preventable, you can reduce your risk by:

• Wearing supportive footwear and replacing worn-out shoes regularly (especially running shoes every 450–550 miles)

• Limiting time spent in high-heeled shoes

• Stretching your feet and calves regularly

• Choosing low-impact exercises like swimming or cycling

Quick Facts

• Plantar fasciitis affects approximately two million people in the U.S. annually.

• Most individuals improve significantly with conservative, nonsurgical treatments.

• Altering your walking gait to avoid pain can lead to other musculoskeletal problems, including knee, hip, or back issues.

Get Relief Today

If you are experiencing persistent heel pain or suspect you have plantar fasciitis, contact The Pain Experts of Arizona. Whether you need a consultation in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Gilbert, or Mesa, our pain specialists are ready to provide comprehensive treatment options tailored to your needs. Don’t let foot pain limit your lifestyle—schedule an appointment today.

Call us today at 480-950-9393 to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward feeling better.

The Pain Experts of Arizona – Your Partners in Pain Relief and Recovery.

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