Plantar fasciitis is a painful inflammation of the plantar fascia, the thick tissue on the bottom of the foot. To achieve heel pain relief and reduce painful swelling, patients apply ice to the affected area or try heel and foot stretching exercises.
Treatments for plantar fasciitis also include resting the feet and wearing orthopedic shoes with strong support and cushioning. Self-care methods of heel pain relief also include wearing a heel cup or shoe inserts. Felt pads can also be added to the heel area.
In cases of chronic, long-term pain, your doctor may suggest wearing a boot cast, buying custom-made shoe inserts or orthotics, or receiving steroid injections in the heel. In rare cases, foot surgery is needed.
