How To Test For Plantar Fasciitis: Complete Guide

How To Test For Plantar Fasciitis

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Having a plantar fasciitis diagnosis can be a tricky thing. After all, the pain associated with this condition can often feel like other foot problems (heel spurs, Achilles tendonitis, etc.), and even your doctor may have trouble determining whether or not you have plantar fasciitis just by examining your foot. So how do you know for sure? In this guide, we’ll go over a few of the most common plantar fasciitis tests that doctors use to make a diagnosis.

Why Is It Important To Get Tested For Plantar Fasciitis?

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Before we get into the different types of tests, it’s important to understand why testing is so important.

  • Plantar fasciitis can be a very painful condition. If you’re experiencing foot pain, you’ll want to get to the bottom of it as soon as possible so that you can start treatment and start feeling better.
  • Plantar fasciitis often gets worse over time. The longer you wait to get treatment, the more difficult it can be to find relief. However, with the right treatment plan, most people with plantar fasciitis can find significant pain relief and get back to their normal activities.
  • You can rule out other possible causes of your foot pain. Conditions like heel spurs and Achilles tendonitis can cause similar symptoms to plantar fasciitis. By getting tested, you can make sure that you’re getting the right diagnosis and treatment for your condition.

Different Ways On How To Test For Plantar Fasciitis

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There are a few different tests that your doctor may use to diagnose plantar fasciitis.

Pressure point Test

The pressure point test is one of the most common tests for plantar fasciitis. This test is usually performed by your doctor pressing on specific areas of your foot to see if there is pain. If you have plantar fasciitis, you will usually feel pain when your doctor presses on the bottom of your foot near your heel.

X-rays

Your doctor may also order x-rays to rule out other possible causes of your foot pain, such as a heel spur. X-rays can also give your doctor a better look at the condition of your foot and rule out other problems. Also, if you’ve had plantar fasciitis for a long time, your doctor may order x-rays to check for any damage to your bones.

Ultrasound

Ultrasound is another test that can be used to diagnose plantar fasciitis. This test uses sound waves to create an image of your foot. An ultrasound can show your doctor any inflammation or thickening of the plantar fascia. In this test, you will usually be asked to lie down on your back with your foot hanging off the edge of the table.

MRI

An MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan is another test that can be used to diagnose plantar fasciitis. This test uses magnetic waves to create an image of your foot. An MRI can show your doctor any inflammation or thickening of the plantar fascia. In this test, you will usually be asked to lie down on your back with your foot in a special MRI machine.

Treatment for Plantar Fasciitis

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Once your doctor has diagnosed you with plantar fasciitis, the next step is to start treatment. There are several different treatment options available for plantar fasciitis.

  • Rest and ice: Resting your foot and applying ice can help reduce the swelling and pain associated with plantar fasciitis. It’s important to ice your foot for 20 minutes at a time, several times a day.
  • Stretching and exercises: Stretching and exercises can help strengthen the muscles and tendons around your foot and ankle. This can help to take the pressure off of your plantar fascia and reduce pain.
  • Orthotics: Orthotics are devices that can be inserted into your shoes to help support your foot. They can help to reduce the pain associated with plantar fasciitis.
  • Night splint: A night splint is a device that you wear while you sleep. It holds your foot in a stretching position overnight. This can help to reduce the morning pain associated with plantar fasciitis.
  • Anti-inflammatory medication: Anti-inflammatory medication can help to reduce the swelling and pain associated with plantar fasciitis.
  • Corticosteroid injections: Corticosteroid injections are a more aggressive treatment for plantar fasciitis. They can help to reduce the swelling and pain associated with the condition.
  • Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to treat plantar fasciitis. Surgery is usually only recommended if other treatments have failed to provide relief. It is the last resort option.

If you think you may have plantar fasciitis, it’s important to see your doctor for a diagnosis. By getting the right diagnosis and treatment, you can speed up the healing process and get back to your normal activities.

Conclusion

Plantar fasciitis is a common condition that can cause pain in the heel and arch of the foot. Several different tests can be used to diagnose plantar fasciitis. Once your doctor has diagnosed you with plantar fasciitis, the next step is to start treatment. There are a lot of treatment options. By getting the right diagnosis and treatment, you can speed up the healing process and get back to your normal activities.

 

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