Plantar Fasciitis

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is a common condition that causes heel pain due to inflammation of the plantar fascia—a thick band of tissue connecting the heel bone to the toes.

Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis

The hallmark symptom is heel pain, particularly after taking the first steps in the morning or after extended periods of rest. The pain is generally located at the bottom of the heel.

Causes of Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis often develops due to repetitive stress on the plantar fascia from activities like walking, running, or prolonged standing. Several risk factors contribute to its development:

  • Foot Structure Conditions like high arches or flat feet.
  • Footwear: Unsupportive shoes, such as flip-flops or those lacking proper arch support.
  • Obesity: Carrying excess weight strains the feet.
  • Activities: Sports such as running or dancing, as well as jobs requiring prolonged standing.
  • Age: More prevalent among middle-aged adults.

Treatment Options for Plantar Fasciitis

Patients have a variety of options to manage symptoms. Conservative measures include:

  • Rest and activity modification
  • Icing the affected area
  • Orthotics for arch support
  • Physical therapy to strengthen and stretch the fascia

Radiation Therapy for Plantar Fasciitis

For patients who do not find relief with conservative treatments, Low-Dose Radiation Therapy (LDRT) offers a promising, non-invasive option. Studies have shown that LDRT effectively reduces pain for a high percentage of plantar fasciitis patients.

How Does LDRT Work?

LDRT works by:

  • Breaking down painful scar tissue in the heel and arch.
  • Triggering a healing response, as damaged cells repair themselves.

This method allows for long-term pain relief without surgery or repeated injections.

Effectiveness of LDRT

Clinical studies indicate:

  • Three months post-treatment, nearly 70% of patients report being pain-free or experiencing minimal discomfort.
  • At 54 months, around 60% of patients remain pain-free or experience significantly reduced pain

Radiation Therapy for Plantar Fasciitis

Patients who fail conservative measures for Plantar Fasciitis can be excellent candidates for Low Dose Radiation Therapy (LDRT). It has been found that LDRT is an effective non-invasive treatment method for a high percentage of plantar fasciitis patients. When it comes to Plantar Fasciitis, low doses of radiation break down painful scar tissue in the heel and arch. The small dose of radiation can also trigger a healing response, as the cells that have just sustained some damage repair themselves. Studies have shown that three months after the course of radiation therapy, almost 70% were pain free or had very little pain. At 54 months, a little over 60% were still pain-free or almost pain free.

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