Plantar fasciitis: Part 4

Progression of Plantar fasciitis

In the beginning, plantar fasciitis may appear to be a nuisance and the pain may be tolerated. However, very quickly the disorder can limit one’s life style. The pain will come on quickly and be constant. Other individuals will find it difficult to walk even a few steps or wear shoes comfortably. Over time, most individuals develop an abnormal gait that places more strain on the back and hips.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of plantar fasciitis is relatively simple. While the diagnosis can be made from the history and clinical presentation, some physicians may order an x ray or an MRI. Sometimes, a bone spur or a pinched nerve can present in a similar fashion.

X rays are done to ensure that there is no bone spur. Previously it was felt that all cases of plantar fasciitis were due to a bone spur. However, many individuals have bone spurs on their heels and have no symptoms. It is believed that in most cases bone spurs are an incidental finding and not a cause of plantar fasciitis.