There are several modes of plantar fasciitis treatment San Francisco can access if they are suffering from this condition. These modalities aim at a number of objectives the most important of which is elimination of pain. Many patients report that the pain if usually worse in the morning and abates gradually in the course of the day as they engage themselves in various physical activities. It may be quite incapacitating at times. Restoration of function is the other major objective.

The condition is a fairly common occurrence and affects many athletes. This is due to the repeated act of straining the planter fascia, a sheet of tissue that connects the sole of the foot and the toes. Inflammation of the torn tissue results in considerable pain. It is also common in people who use improper foot wear for prolonged periods of time. Other persons thought to be at high risk include pregnant women and the obese.

It is important for the affected individual to seek treatment as soon as possible. Early intervention has been associated with better response to therapy compared to those who seek treatment when the condition has already progressed. One of the conservative approaches that can be used is to have adequate rest and to restrict movement. Affected individuals should as much as possible avoid walking on hard surface such as concrete. Severe pain may be relieved by use of ice packs.

Conservative treatments are quite effective as long as the patient adheres to the prescription. Statistics show that about 90% of persons on conservative management recover completely within about one year. The available modes of management are often used singly or in combination to optimize the response. This is mainly determined by the severity of symptoms and the patient response to the various therapies. Surgery should only be considered when the conservative methods fail.

Pain control can also be achieved through the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDS. The effectiveness of these medications is variable among patients. Usually the relief is just short term for most people and there is a need to take frequent doses. This exposes the affected person to numerous side effects of drugs such as aspirin, naproxen and ibuprofen. Some of the most feared side effects are peptic ulcer disease and renal disease. The available formulations are pills and cream.

Since improper shoe wear is one of the aggravating factors, there is need to change the same. The shoes chosen should be good in shock absorption and must have the right arch support. It is important to ensure that shoes chosen are well cushioned to reduce the strain on the pressure point areas. Shoe inserts, orthotics help a great deal in cushioning the heel. These should be used for both feet regardless of whether only one or both feet are involved.

Physical exercise plays a very significant role in the management. Simple routines done on a daily basis are just enough. These include toe stretches, calf stretches and towel stretches. Done, regularly, these exercises help in the maintenance of proper arches and increase ligament flexibility.

If on plantar fasciitis treatment san francisco should remember that response to therapy is widely variable among patients. Whereas others respond within a short period of time, others take much longer. There is need for regular clinic visits to assess the progress.