Heel Pain Doctor Overland Park – KC Foot Care

 

 

Plantar fasciitis is a disorder of the connective tissue which supports the arch of the foot. It results in pain in the heel and bottom of the foot that is usually most severe with the first steps of the day or following a period of rest. Pain is also frequently brought on by bending the foot and toes up towards the shin. The pain typically comes on gradually, and it affects both feet in about one-third of cases.

The cause of plantar fasciitis is not entirely clear. Risk factors include overuse, such as from long periods of standing, an increase in exercise, and obesity. It is also associated with inward rolling of the foot, a tight Achilles tendon, and a sedentary lifestyle. It is unclear if heel spurs have a role in causing plantar fasciitis even though they are commonly present in people who have the condition. Plantar fasciitis is a disorder of the insertion site of the ligament on the bone characterized by micro tears, breakdown of collagen, and scarring. Since inflammation plays either a lesser or no role, a review proposed it be renamed plantar fasciosis. The presentation of the symptoms is generally the basis for diagnosis; with ultrasound sometimes being useful if there is uncertainty. Other conditions with similar symptoms include osteoarthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, heel pad syndrome, and reactive arthritis.

Most cases of plantar fasciitis resolve with time and conservative methods of treatment. For the first few weeks, those affected are usually advised to rest, change their activities, take pain medications, and stretch. If this is not sufficient, physiotherapy, orthotics, splinting, or steroid injections may be options. If these measures are not effective, additional measures may include extracorporeal shockwave therapy or surgery.

Between 4% and 7% of the general population has heel pain at any given time: about 80% of these are due to plantar fasciitis. Approximately 10% of people have the disorder at some point during their life. It becomes more common with age. It is unclear if one sex is more affected than the other.

Signs and symptoms

When plantar fasciitis occurs, the pain is typically sharp and usually unilateral (70% of cases). Bearing weight on the heel after long periods of rest worsens heel pain in affected individuals. Individuals with plantar fasciitis often report their symptoms are most intense during their first steps after getting out of bed or after prolonged periods of sitting. Symptoms typically improve with continued walking. Rare, but reported symptoms include numbness, tingling, swelling, or radiating pain. Typically there are no fevers or night sweats.

If the plantar fascia is overused in the setting of plantar fasciitis, the plantar fascia can rupture. Typical signs and symptoms of plantar fascia rupture include a clicking or snapping sound, significant local swelling, and acute pain in the bottom of the foot.

Risk factors

Identified risk factors for plantar fasciitis include excessive running, standing on hard surfaces for prolonged periods, high arches of the feet, the presence of a leg length inequality, and flat feet. The tendency of flat feet to excessively roll inward during walking or running makes them more susceptible to plantar fasciitis. Obesity is seen in 70% of individuals who present with plantar fasciitis and is an independent risk factor.

Plantar fasciitis is commonly a result of some biomechanical imbalance that causes an increased amount of tension placed along the plantar fascia.

Studies consistently find a strong association between increased body mass index and plantar fasciitis in the non-athletic population. This association between weight and plantar fasciitis is not present in the athletic population. Achilles tendon tightness and inappropriate footwear have also been identified as significant risk factors.

“Dr. Bembynista provides 37 years of experience in treating multiple foot and ankle related problems. The patient comes first with treatments based on best outcome for problems. We will go over diagnosis and treatment plans in depth so patients thoroughly understand they are treatment options. We treat many different problems including nail fungus, heel pain, plantar fasciitis ,we do custom orthotics, surgical correction of bunions, ingrown toenails, hammertoes, plantar warts ,Morton’s neuroma and use PRP to treat Achilles tendinitis and fasciitis. Many procedures can be done within the office setting to save cost but if necessary a surgical center is available.”

Dr. Bembineasta is originally from Chicago but has been practicing in Kansas City for 34 years. My philosophy is always to put the patient first, time will always be taken to listen to your problem and review treatments. Each care plan is tailored to your individual needs. We use advanced technology with digital x-rays, lasers, and instructional videos.

Podiatrists hold Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degrees (D.P.M.). Dr. Bembineasta is also board certified by the American Board of Podiatric Surgery.

The podiatry practice of Dr. Thomas Bembineasta, serves Independence, Missouri and Kansas City, Missouri (both north and south of the River), and Overland Park, Kansas, and the surrounding communities. Dr. Bembineasta offers expert and professional podiatric services and focuses on patient care and responding to his patients’ needs.

Originally from Chicago, Dr. Bembineasta has now been practicing in the Kansas City area for 28 years. We accept most insurances and will assist you with questions concerning coverage.

Podiatrists hold doctor of podiatric medicine (D.P.M.) degrees. Dr. Bembineasta is also board certified by the American Board of Podiatric Surgery. Podiatrists are the foremost authorities and medical specialists of the foot and ankle. The following list includes some common conditions that podiatrists often diagnose and treat:

• Heel pain
• Bunions
• Ingrown toenails
• Planter warts – Hammertoes
• Morton’s neuroma and
• Planter fasciitis.

 

We have offices in Overland Park and Kansas City off Barry Road. Call us when looking for a Heel Pain Doctor Overland Park