DO YOU KNOW WHAT PLANTAR FASCIITIS, OR, POLICEMAN’S FOOT SYNDROME IS?

Have you ever experienced intense, inexplicable pain in the heel of your foot?

You’re not alone. The scientific name for this syndrome is Plantar Fasciitis, but it’s also known as Policeman’s Foot Syndrome.  Doctors and patients took to this moniker as symptoms first appeared in policemen who spent hours patrolling neighborhoods on foot. 

The plantar fascia is a thin, web-like ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. It supports the arch of your foot and helps you walk. Plantar fasciitis occurs when the tissue between this ligament and your heel becomes inflamed.

Why is this happening?

Too much time standing or walking are the most common culprits for the pain you’re experiencing. You will most likely feel the most intense sharp, stabbing pain first thing in the morning. This is before you’ve had a chance to stretch and loosen the area. The pain should lessen over the course of the day. 

How can I make it better?

Not getting your plantar fasciitis treated will most likely make your condition worsen. Some things to stop wearing immediately: high heels and poorly fitted shoes. Try to rest. Arch problems and a tight Achilles tendon can aggravate the problem. If not treated, scar tissue can lead to bone spurs, which are painful calcium deposits at the base of the heel.

See a podiatrist! Dr. Han, of River Podiatry, will assess your activity and footwear, examine your foot, and may even take an x-ray to rule out bone spurs or heel bone fractures.

Besides rest and proper footwear, a podiatrist may prescribe custom orthotics, which are shoe inserts that align your foot properly while you walk. A podiatrist may show you some stretching exercises.

Surgery will be the last option and can most likely be avoided with early treatment.

If you suspect you have Policeman’s Foot Syndrome (Plantar Fasciitis), contact River Podiatry to set up an appointment so that we can get you on a treatment plan. We know that walking around in pain every day is no way to live your life. We’re here to help! Want to learn more? Book an appointment and speak with us today.