What does plantar fasciitis pain actually feel like?

Classic plantar fasciitis is a sharp, stabbing pain at the inside of the heel that is worst with the first few steps in the morning, eases after a few minutes of walking, and returns after long periods of sitting. If your pain is on the back of the heel, or on the arch without the morning pattern, you may have a different diagnosis — a proper exam is important.

How long does plantar fasciitis take to heal?

With a structured conservative plan — stretching, a custom or prefabricated orthotic, a night splint, and an anti-inflammatory protocol — most patients are significantly better within 6 to 12 weeks. Patients who try to push through with nothing more than over-the-counter inserts often take much longer. Early, organized treatment shortens the recovery.

Do I need an MRI or X-ray for heel pain?

A focused clinical exam is enough to diagnose plantar fasciitis in most cases. We use X-ray at the first visit to rule out a stress fracture, heel-spur variant, or calcaneal bone cyst, and we reserve MRI for cases that are not responding at 6–8 weeks, to look for a partial fascia tear or a different source of pain.

Does a cortisone shot help plantar fasciitis?

A targeted, ultrasound-guided corticosteroid injection can calm a flare so the rehab program can actually succeed. We use it selectively, usually after stretching and orthotics have been in place for several weeks, because repeated shots can thin the fat pad. It is one tool among several, not a stand-alone cure.

What if stretches and orthotics do not work?

When 8–12 weeks of conservative care is not enough, next steps include shockwave (EPAT) therapy, a PRP or amniotic injection, or in selected cases a minimally invasive plantar fascia release. We stage these options so the least-invasive effective therapy is always tried first. Very few plantar fasciitis patients ever need open surgery.

Plantar Fasciitis Treatment in Michigan

Board Certified Podiatrists | Expert Foot & Ankle Care

(810) 206-1402 Patient Portal

Balance Foot & Ankle surgeons are affiliated with Trinity Health Michigan, Corewell Health, and Henry Ford Health — three of Michigan’s largest health systems.

Our Podiatry Services Locations in Michigan

Balance Foot & Ankle, Howell, MI

4330 E Grand River, Howell, MI 48843

810-206-1402

Fax: 833-450-6201

Balance Foot & Ankle, Bloomfield, MI

43494 Woodward Ave #208, Bloomfield Twp, MI 48302

810-206-1402

Fax: 833-450-6201

Deep-Dive: The Science Behind Plantar Fasciitis

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