Effective Treatment for Plantar Fasciitis & Heel Pain in Los Angeles

Sharp, stabbing pain in the heel, especially with the first steps in the morning, is the hallmark of plantar fasciitis. This common condition can make walking miserable for Los Angeles residents. At Body and Mind Pain Center, Dr. Zev Nevo offers evidence-based, effective non-surgical treatments designed to address the root causes of your heel pain and get you back on your feet comfortably.

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Understanding Plantar Fasciitis:

Plantar fasciitis involves inflammation or degeneration of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue supporting the arch of your foot. Symptoms typically include:

  • Sharp pain near the heel, often worst upon waking or after rest.
  • Pain that may decrease with initial activity but return after prolonged standing/walking.
  • Tenderness on the bottom of the heel. Contributing factors can include foot mechanics (flat feet, high arches), tight calf muscles, improper footwear, obesity, or sudden increases in activity.

Our Integrative Approach to Plantar Fasciitis:

Dr. Nevo provides comprehensive plantar fasciitis treatment in Los Angeles:

  • Diagnosis: Thorough foot/ankle exam, OMT assessment of lower extremity mechanics, potentially diagnostic ultrasound to assess fascia thickness and rule out other issues.
  • Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT): A highly effective treatment applying acoustic waves to the plantar fascia insertion to stimulate healing, reduce pain, and break down thickened tissue.
  • OMT: Addressing biomechanical factors in the foot, ankle, knee, hip, and pelvis that contribute to abnormal foot stress; techniques to release calf and foot muscle tension.
  • Ultrasound-Guided Injections: Precise injection near (but not directly into) the plantar fascia if significant inflammation persists, or for related nerve irritation (Tarsal Tunnel). PRP may also be considered.
  • Wellness Clinic Support: Guidance on appropriate stretching (calf, plantar fascia), strengthening exercises, footwear recommendations, and potentially orthotics.
  • Functional Medicine: Considering systemic inflammation if pain is widespread or persistent.

Patient Empowerment & Goals:

Our aim is to eliminate your heel pain, restore normal walking mechanics, address underlying contributing factors, and provide strategies for long-term prevention.

The Body and Mind Pain Center Difference:

We offer advanced treatments like ESWT for plantar fasciitis in Los Angeles, combined with Dr. Nevo’s OMT expertise and a holistic view of biomechanics. Our patient-centered, evidence-based, fiduciary care, potentially supported by our Wellness Clinic, ensures you receive a personalized and effective plan.

Frequently Asked Questions:

How effective is Shockwave Therapy for plantar fasciitis?

ESWT  is considered one of the most effective non-invasive treatments for chronic plantar fasciitis, with strong evidence supporting its ability to reduce pain and improve function, often succeeding where other treatments have failed.

How can OMT help my foot pain?

OMT looks at the whole body’s mechanics. For foot pain, it can address restrictions or imbalances in the foot, ankle, leg, knee, hip, or even pelvis that alter how you walk and put stress on the plantar fascia. It also helps release related muscle tension (like tight calves).

Are injections recommended for plantar fasciitis?

Corticosteroid injections can offer temporary relief but carry risks (fascia rupture, fat pad atrophy). Dr. Nevo uses ultrasound guidance for precise placement if used for severe inflammation, or may recommend PRP injections instead to promote healing. ESWT is often preferred as a primary intervention.

What are the best stretches for plantar fasciitis?

Consistent stretching of the calf muscles (both straight-knee and bent-knee) and the plantar fascia itself (e.g., pulling toes up, rolling foot on a ball) are crucial components of most treatment plans.

Does footwear make a difference?

Yes, significantly. Wearing supportive shoes with good arch support and cushioning, and avoiding going barefoot or wearing flat, unsupportive shoes, is essential for managing plantar fasciitis in daily life in Los Angeles.

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