Heel Pain & Plantar Fasciitis
Heel pain can make walking and daily activity uncomfortable. Dr. Mark Forman offers heel pain and plantar fasciitis treatment in Scottsdale.
Common Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis often causes pain where the plantar fascia connects near the heel. Symptoms may improve once you start moving, then return after activity or periods of rest.
- Sharp or aching heel pain with the first steps in the morning
- Pain after sitting or resting for a period of time
- Tenderness along the bottom of the heel or arch
- Pain that increases after prolonged standing, walking, or exercise
- Tightness through the heel, arch, or calf
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis can develop when the tissue supporting the arch becomes irritated or overloaded. Often, several factors contribute rather than one single cause.
- Increased walking, running, or standing
- Tight calf muscles or limited ankle flexibility
- Changes in activity level or exercise routine
- Foot structure and mechanics
- Unsupportive or worn footwear
- Repetitive stress on the heel and arch
How We Diagnose Heel Pain
Heel pain can have several possible causes, so the first step is understanding what is driving your symptoms. Dr. Forman looks at when the pain started, what makes it better or worse, and how your foot is functioning before recommending treatment.
Heel Pain & Plantar Fasciitis Treatment Options
Treatment depends on what is causing your heel pain, how long symptoms have been present, and how much they are affecting your daily activities.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
For many patients, plantar fasciitis treatment begins with reducing strain on the plantar fascia and addressing the factors contributing to irritation.
- Stretching for the plantar fascia and calf
- Supportive, cushioned footwear
- Custom orthotics when appropriate
- Activity modifications during flare-ups
- Strategies to reduce repeated pressure on the heel
The goal is to reduce irritation, improve foot mechanics, and make everyday movement more comfortable.
Advanced Non-Surgical Treatment
When heel pain continues despite initial treatment, Dr. Forman may discuss additional non-surgical options based on the cause and severity of your symptoms.
- Shockwave therapy
- PRP injections
- Other treatment options based on the individual diagnosis
These treatments may be considered as part of a broader plan for persistent plantar fasciitis and heel pain.
Explore Regenerative MedicineFrequently Asked Questions
Common plantar fasciitis symptoms include pain along the bottom of the heel, especially with the first steps in the morning or after sitting for a period of time. Some people also experience arch pain, heel tenderness, stiffness, or discomfort after prolonged walking, standing, or exercise.
Plantar fasciitis can develop when the plantar fascia becomes irritated or overloaded. Contributing factors may include increased walking or running, tight calf muscles, changes in activity level, foot mechanics, repetitive stress, and unsupportive footwear. Heel pain can have other causes as well, so an evaluation can help determine what is contributing to your symptoms.
Yes. Plantar fasciitis treatment commonly begins with non-surgical options such as stretching, supportive footwear, orthotics, and activity modifications. For persistent heel pain, Dr. Mark Forman may also discuss treatments such as shockwave therapy or PRP when appropriate.
Plantar fasciitis recovery time varies depending on how long symptoms have been present, the severity of the condition, activity level, and the treatment approach. Some patients improve with initial treatment, while more persistent cases may require additional care.
Consider seeing a podiatrist if heel pain keeps returning, lasts despite rest or footwear changes, becomes more severe, or begins to affect walking, exercise, or daily activities. A podiatric evaluation can help determine whether plantar fasciitis or another foot condition may be causing the pain.
Put Your Feet First provides heel pain and plantar fasciitis treatment in Scottsdale, Arizona. Dr. Mark Forman offers non-surgical and advanced treatment options, including orthotics, shockwave therapy, and PRP for appropriate patients.
Still Dealing With Heel Pain?
If heel pain keeps interfering with walking, exercise, or the activities you enjoy, it may be time to find out what is causing it.