What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Learn more about low-level laser treatment and how it could improve your heel pain. 

Heel pain can certainly be a real problem, and it’s certainly even more of an issue when you are dealing with chronic heel pain. This is where our Inwood, Washington Heights, NY, podiatrists Dr. Elizabeth Youngewirth and Dr. Irina Blustein can help. We offer heel pain laser treatment to our patients battling chronic and persistent forms of plantar fasciitis that might not respond to at-home care.

What is plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is an inflammatory foot problem that impacts the plantar fascia. This band of tissue runs the length of the feet from the heels to the toes and supports the arches; however, overuse can cause microtears in the tissue, leading to inflammation and pain. We often see this problem in runners and endurance athletes.

How can I tell if my heel pain is caused by plantar fasciitis? 

While plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of heel pain, it isn’t the only cause. That’s why it’s important to turn to our Inwood, Washington Heights, NY, podiatrists if you are dealing with heel pain (especially if this is your first time dealing with this problem). It might be plantar fasciitis if,

  • Your heel pain originates below the heel bone
  • Your pain is worse first thing in the morning or after long periods of inactivity
  • Your pain radiates to the arches of our feet
  • You also experience stiffness and swelling

How is laser therapy used to treat heel pain? 

If you are dealing with new, worsening or unresponsive heel pain, it’s time to turn to our Inwood, Washington Heights, NY, team. If your heel pain is chronic or severe, we may recommend laser therapy. Low-level laser therapy, also referred to as cold laser therapy, is so low that the laser doesn’t generate heat. When directed over the inflamed tissue, it’s designed to stimulate the body’s natural healing process.

The laser can help the tissue repair itself while reducing pain and inflammation. Low-level laser therapy also provides patients with a pain-free, non-invasive, side-effect-free treatment option when home care isn’t enough. It’s also an excellent option for individuals with tears in the plantar fascia, as shockwave therapy (another popular option for treating plantar fasciitis) isn’t recommended if there are tears in the tissue. While often used on chronic plantar fasciitis, it can also be used on acute injuries.

Want to sit down with our Inwood, Washington Heights, NY, podiatrists to discuss heel pain laser treatment and how it could help you. Call us today at (212) 567-6126 to schedule a consultation.

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