According to the University of Michigan Health System, plantar fasciitis remains the most common cause of heel pain. The fascia is the ligament running along the underside of the foot connecting the heel bone to the toes. Overstretching and straining of the ligament causes inflammation and burning sensations. The elderly, athletes and soldiers are commonly are diagnosed with the plantar fasciitis, which can affect one or both feet. Typically, treatment resolves the condition in about nine months, according to MedlinePlus.
Pain and Anti-inflammatory Medications
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can treat the pain and inflammation of plantar fasciitis. These drugs include ibuprofen and naproxen and are available over the counter. A patient consuming NSAIDs may experience a variety of side effects including gastric bleeding or ulcers as well as renal damage, according to Dr. Craig Young in the February 2001 issue of "American Family Physician."
Corticosteroids
Administration of corticosteroids often remains one of the last resorts to reduce pain and inflammation. One delivery method, known as iontophoresis, delivers topical corticosteroid medication via an electrical charge through the skin. According to Young, a recent study showed improvement of plantar fasciitis after iontophoresis after two weeks, but long-term improvement after six weeks could not be identified. Topical corticosteroids must be administered via iontophoresis two to three times per week, a disadvantage for some patients. Young recommends the treatment for athletes and patients who are unable to work due to plantar fasciitis.
Injecting corticosteroids into the skin with a syringe is a second method of delivering steroids for pain relief; however, the number of injections given is limited: Multiple injections may weaken the fascia and possibly cause it to rupture, according to MayoClinic.com. The injections also shrink the fatty padding on the bottom of the foot. Ultrasound images may guide medical staff where to inject the medication. MedlinePlus states the corticosteroid injections are very painful and not suitable for all people. Still, Young states corticosteroid injections have been found to have a success rate of 70 percent or better.
Botox
Botox, or botulism toxin, remains an alternative medication used to treat plantar fasciitis. Though results are positive, long-term effects depend on present ongoing clinical studies, according to "Podiatry Today." The protein is injected into the fascia, causing temporary muscle paralysis for up to six months. The treatment affects the pain and inflammation associated with the condition, but not the cause. According to Active.com, treatments are not typically covered by insurance and cost between $300 and $500.
