Athens, GA (July, 2022) – According to Joseph T. Johnson, MD, an orthopedic foot and ankle specialist and surgeon at Athens Orthopedic Clinic (AOC), plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. Approximately 2 million patients are treated for this condition every year. With proper diagnosis and treatment, you can stop plantar fasciitis in its tracks—before it stops you. 

The plantar fascia is a long, thin ligament that connects the heel to the front of the foot. Plantar fasciitis occurs when this ligament becomes irritated and inflamed. This causes the pain on the bottom of the foot near the heel and may intensify after a long period of rest or after an activity or exercise. Causes of plantar fasciitis vary and can be attributed to tight calf muscles, obesity, a very high arch or repetitive impact. 

Although plantar fasciitis is very painful and can affect your ability to perform daily activities, it is treatable. Treatment may include physical therapy, night splints, orthotics, icing, and anti-inflammatory medicines. 

“At AOC, our highly trained foot and ankle specialists have the expertise and range of services needed to treat heel pain. Although surgery is very rarely needed with plantar fasciitis, AOC offers the latest in minimally invasive surgery,” explains Dr. Johnson.

If heel pain is stopping you from daily activities, seek evaluation and treatment from a specialist. AOC has orthopedic urgent care centers, imaging centers, outpatient surgery centers and physical therapy centers throughout Northeast Georgia.