We all know how awful it is to feel a stabbing pain on the bottom foot. The excruciating foot pain of Plantar Fasciitis makes it nearly impossible to walk or even stand for a while. And that’s when you’re nagged with questions — can this pain be treated with home remedies? When to consult the doctor? What kind of doctor treats plantar fasciitis?
All these questions pop up in your head, along with throbbing pain in your foot. But don’t worry! We have you covered with our reliable information.
Without further ado, let’s skim through the necessary information!
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common heel pain due to plantar fascia inflammation. (a tissue strand that extends along the foot sole). This thick tissue strand is the primary component for supporting your strenuous daily activities.
This ailment causes tension in the plantar fascia, constricting running and walking. If left untreated, fascia loses its elasticity, posing irritation and frequent swelling.
What are the Recommended Home Remedies?
Home remedies are one the best methods to treat muscle ailments. That depends on how intense or painful your condition is. The situation might be enhanced with a few remedial exercises regarding plantar fasciitis. These remedies include:
- Applying frozen pack for 20 minutes
- Wearing cushioned insoles to aid in arch support
- Frequently engaging in stretching exercises
- Taking painkillers
- Controlling obesity and maintaining a healthy weight
- Engaging in low-impact sport (swimming, cycling)
When to See a Doctor?
If remedial techniques don’t soothe the pain, paying a visit to a physician becomes a must. A few highlighted symptoms shouldn’t be neglected to avoid worsening pain. The initial stages of diagnosis start with your own home. Start observing your daily activities and point out the constrictions in your daily activities.
This might be alarming if you face swelling in your heel’s bottom part. The condition worsens if this swelling is coupled with a high fever or frequent tingling. Your bottom foot might even puff up to the point that it becomes numb; consult a doctor immediately.!
What Kind of Doctor for Plantar Fasciitis?
You often need clarification about how to choose a doctor appropriately. And these questions are valid as most people lack the necessary medical information to opt for the best doctor. Jotted below are a few recommended physicians you might pay a visit to:
General Practitioner
A general practitioner is the best option to start with. If needed, they recommend some specialists in case of alarming conditions. GPs often begin with thoroughly skimming through your medical history and might take you through a few tests; these practices are highly encouraged to track down the root cause of the ailment.
Another point is that plantar fasciitis treatment is common. Most GPs are familiar with this ailment and can treat it well if the condition is in the initial stages. These factors enhance the coordination of patients with GPs and specialists (if needed).
Sports Medicine Specialist
Sports medicine specialist is another go-to for patients suffering from plantar fasciitis. If a highly strenuous activity causes plantar fasciitis, visiting an experienced sports specialist is the best option. These strenuous activities may include playing football, frequent running, soccer, or any training that puts pressure on your bottom heel.
Sports specialists might take you through a few physical therapies for plantar fasciitis treatment. This includes medication. Prescribing medicines aids in rapid recovery and soothes tingling sensation.
Orthopedic Specialist
Although an orthopedist doesn’t deal with foot concerns, they deal with ligaments and tissues. This option is highly recommended if your heel ailment has worsened. Orthopedists can track down the core reason if you suffer from intense pain and swelling.
Sometimes, the treatment includes over-the-counter pain medications, physical therapies, and rehabilitation.
Podiatric Specialist
A podiatrist is an optimal option if you want to opt for a fully specialized foot doctor. Your general practitioner will likely recommend you to a podiatrist for plantar fasciitis treatment.
So, how does a podiatrist treat plantar fasciitis? The treatment might start with essential physical therapies, leading to stretching exercises that aid in arch support. Some orthotics might also tag along in medicine that will help in even weight distribution. If inflammation and pain are severe, steroids might also add to the list!
Podiatrist vs. Orthopedist: Plantar Fasciitis Doctor
Now, a question pops up: which of the doctors should you choose for fasciitis? Both specialists can treat fasciitis well, but some key points should be highlighted for rational decision. Below are a few comparisons that can aid you in the treatment procedure.
If you’re consulting an orthopedist, they might recommend you to a physical therapist or emphasize surgical treatments. On the other hand, podiatrists might take you through less expensive, effective, and simple remedies for fasciitis.
In the case of musculoskeletal issues or ligament and muscle constriction, an orthopedist can be a better go-to.
A podiatrist can treat the ailment through medical orthotics, inflammatory supplements, and shockwave therapy. They’re more specialized in foot ailments, so it’s better to go to a podiatrist for a technical diagnosis and treatment.
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Get AppointmentFinal Verdict
If we go through our daily activities, almost all of the activities require stretching your lower limbs and even your feet. Foot ailments constrict your routine activities and can prove to be more painful. So, it is better to observe your condition thoroughly.
Visit a general practitioner for a generic checkup so that the cause can be tracked down. In severe conditions, make an informed decision before consulting a doctor. A comprehensive research can spot a specialist for you aiding in timed treatment.
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