Plantar fasciitis

Omar Saleem, MD, MsPT

Dr. Omar Saleem specializes in diagnosing and treating plantar fasciitis, a common condition characterized by inflammation of the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue connecting the heel bone to the toes. This condition often causes heel pain, particularly with the first steps in the morning or after prolonged periods of sitting.

Diagnosis

Dr. Saleem uses a comprehensive approach to diagnose plantar fasciitis:

Patient History: Gathering information about the onset of pain, daily activities, and any previous injuries.
Physical Examination: Assessing the foot and ankle for tenderness, swelling, and specific areas of pain along the plantar fascia.
Imaging Studies: In some cases, X-rays or MRI may be utilized to rule out other conditions such as heel spurs or fractures.

Treatment Options

Dr. Saleem employs both conservative and surgical treatment options based on the severity of the condition:

Conservative Management:
- Rest and Ice: Advising patients to avoid activities that exacerbate pain and applying ice to reduce inflammation.
- Orthotics: Recommending custom or over-the-counter shoe inserts to provide arch support and alleviate stress on the plantar fascia.
- Physical Therapy: Developing individualized exercise programs to stretch and strengthen the foot and calf muscles.
Surgical Intervention: If conservative treatments fail, Dr. Saleem may consider surgical options, such as:
- Plantar Fascia Release: A surgical procedure to relieve tension in the fascia and alleviate pain.

Rehabilitation and Prevention

Post-treatment care is crucial for recovery, and Dr. Saleem emphasizes:

Rehabilitation Programs: Tailored rehabilitation to restore function and flexibility in the foot.
Preventive Strategies: Educating patients about proper footwear, stretching routines, and avoiding activities that could aggravate the condition.