Can I consult with a doctor on Laso MD about my plantar fasciitis?

Certainly, you can. The healthcare provider will discuss your medical history and inquire about the symptoms or signs of plantar fasciitis you’re experiencing. A physical exam may also be part of the process before providing a plantar fasciitis diagnosis.

Upon receiving a diagnosis for plantar fasciitis, the healthcare provider can recommend suitable treatments based on the severity of your condition.

 

Can I receive a prescription on Laso MD?

Absolutely, our physicians can prescribe medications for plantar fasciitis online during your consultation. Upon accepting a prescription, you’ll have the flexibility to pick it up from any pharmacy or opt for convenient delivery to your doorstep at no extra charge.

 

What is plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis refers to the inflammation of the thick band of tissue running along the underside of the foot, known as the plantar fascia. This tissue connects the heel bone to the toes and is a prevalent cause of heel pain, particularly among middle-aged individuals or those who spend extended periods on their feet.

 

What are the symptoms of plantar fasciitis?

The primary symptom of plantar fasciitis is a sharp, stabbing pain in the heel of the foot, occurring in either one or both feet. This discomfort is most pronounced during the initial steps after waking up in the morning. It may improve after a few steps, or conversely, intensify throughout the day.

Individuals experiencing signs of plantar fasciitis may observe increased pain when ascending stairs or standing for prolonged periods. The discomfort typically exacerbates after physical exercise rather than during activity.

 

What leads to plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis results from straining the ligament that provides support to the arch of the foot, resembling a bowstring.

Excessive tension and stress on the ligament can cause small tears, and repeated tearing or stretching may lead to inflammation or irritation of the plantar fascia, resulting in plantar fasciitis.

However, the precise cause of plantar fasciitis is often unknown.

Several factors can elevate the risk of developing symptoms of plantar fasciitis, including:

Foot mechanics (such as flat feet or high arches)

Obesity Engagement in specific exercises (such as ballet or sudden increases in running distance)

Age (more common between ages 40 and 60, or even younger in runners)

Occupations or activities requiring prolonged periods of standing Wearing worn-out or ill-fitting shoes

Foot pronation (rolling inward while walking)

Tight Achilles tendons or calf muscles

 

How is plantar fasciitis diagnosed?

Typically, a healthcare provider at Laso MD can establish a plantar fasciitis diagnosis by reviewing your medical history and conducting a thorough physical examination.

In most instances, imaging tests are unnecessary. However, in rare cases, your healthcare provider might recommend an X-ray or MRI to confirm the diagnosis of plantar fasciitis and eliminate other potential causes.

Once a diagnosis is determined, our healthcare providers at Laso MD can recommend suitable plantar fasciitis treatments tailored to the severity of your condition.

How is plantar fasciitis managed?

The recommended plantar fasciitis treatments can vary based on the individual and the severity of their condition.

Healthcare providers may propose various therapies as part of the plantar fasciitis treatment plan, including:

1. Rest and ice
2. Calf and plantar fascia stretching (can be performed at home)
3. Avoiding flat shoes or walking barefoot
4. Heel cup inserts (gel, prefabricated)
5. Short-term use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (2-3 weeks)
6. Injection of glucocorticoid and local anesthetic
7. Physical therapy
8. Reduction in activities that aggravate the condition (such as dancing, running, jumping, etc.)
9. Steroid injections

In some instances, healthcare providers may recommend prescription plantar fasciitis medications to alleviate or reduce pain.

If standard plantar fasciitis treatments prove ineffective after several months, healthcare providers may propose alternative options like:

1. Ultrasonic tissue repair
2. Surgery

These alternative treatments are less common and would only be considered after exhausting other available options.

 

When should you consult a doctor for plantar fasciitis?

If you’ve been experiencing unexplained heel pain, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare provider, as it could be indicative of plantar fasciitis.

Your healthcare provider will evaluate your condition, offer a diagnosis for plantar fasciitis, and recommend any necessary treatments, which may involve prescription medications to alleviate your pain.

At Laso MD, our healthcare providers can assist you in finding effective solutions for your pain symptoms, facilitating your return to a more enjoyable life.

 

What is Laso MD?

Laso MD provides a quick and convenient way to connect with healthcare providers regarding your symptoms. As a healthcare app, we offer 24/7 access to Canadian doctors.

Simply log in, request a consultation with a tap of a button, and we’ll promptly connect you to a doctor through live chat or video. For more information, you can visit our How it Works page.

Our healthcare team is proficient in assessing symptoms and providing necessary treatments, including prescriptions if required.