Plantar Fasciitis
What Is It?
Inflammation of the plantar fascia at its calcaneal insertion. The most common cause of heel pain. Worse with first steps in the morning. Associated with obesity, prolonged standing, and tight Achilles.
How Is It Diagnosed?
Clinical diagnosis based on history and exam (maximal tenderness at medial calcaneal tubercle). X-ray to exclude calcaneal stress fracture or heel spur. Ultrasound or MRI for refractory cases.
How Is It Treated?
First-line: stretching (Achilles and plantar fascia), night splints, proper footwear/orthotics, NSAIDs. Corticosteroid injection for persistent pain. Physical therapy. Extracorporeal shock wave therapy for refractory cases.
Tests and Imaging Typically Needed
Clinical diagnosis. X-ray heel if trauma or atypical presentation. Ultrasound for plantar fascia thickness.
Approximate Self-Pay Costs
Office visit: $95-$150. X-ray heel: $75-$150. Corticosteroid injection: $50-$150. Orthotics: $30-$200.