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Heel pain can sneak into your life and stay far longer than welcome. If you’re in Woodland Hills and feel a sharp ache in your heel, especially when you wake up or stand after sitting, you’re not alone. Plantar fasciitis is a very common reason for foot pain, and many in the area struggle with it daily.
Whether you’re walking at the local park in Woodland Hills, running errands, or just standing on your feet all day, this condition can make even simple tasks very difficult. But here’s the good news: Plantar fasciitis is highly treatable with a combination of practical steps and professional guidance. Below are seven proven treatments, many of which you can start today, right here in Woodland Hills.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis and Why Does It Happen
Plantar fasciitis happens when the supportive thick tissue band for the arch of the foot gets stretched too much or hurt. This creates inflammation, leading to pain in the heel and bottom of the foot. The pain is often worse in the morning or after sitting for a while.
In Woodland Hills, people live active lives. From weekend walks in a nearby park to long office hours at the office work requiring lots of standing, our feet often take more pressure than we realize. Without proper foot support, that repeated stress can cause micro-tears in the fascia, triggering long-term discomfort. Understanding the cause is the first step to finding lasting relief.
1. Custom Orthotics and Supportive Footwear
Footwear plays a huge role in treating and preventing plantar fasciitis. Unsupportive shoes with thin soles or flat footbeds can worsen pain and slow healing. Custom orthotic inserts are a great solution. They help distribute pressure evenly, support the arch, and reduce strain on the heel.
Your Shoes Matter
Supportive footwear doesn’t have to be fancy—just functional. Always buy shoes with good cushioning, good heel support, and proper arch alignment.
These help your foot move naturally and prevent further damage. For many people in Woodland Hills, simply switching shoes and using orthotics can bring quick relief. Combined with other treatments, orthotics often make a major difference in overall recovery.
2. Physical Therapy and Gentle Stretching
Physical therapy is one of the most effective ways to treat plantar fasciitis. It improves flexibility, reduces tension, and strengthens the muscles that support your foot. You don’t need complex gym routines; gentle daily stretches at home can be just as helpful.
A little stretching can Be Helpful.
Focus on stretches for your calves, Achilles tendon, and the bottom of your foot. Wall calf stretches, towel stretches, and toe curls are some of the easiest places to start. Physical therapy sessions, if needed, can guide you through exercises tailored to your body. These movements help restore normal foot function and prevent future injuries, especially for active residents who enjoy walking or hiking in and around Woodland Hills.
3. Home Remedies: Rest, Ice, and Massage
If you’ve just started feeling heel pain, dont worry. Many mild cases of plantar fasciitis respond well to simple home care. Begin by resting your feet. Limit long walks, especially on hard surfaces, and avoid walking barefoot at home.
It’s Time to Have Some Ice
Apply ice to your heel for 15 to 20 minutes, a few times daily. Ice decreases inflammation and numbs the pain. For extra relief, roll a frozen water bottle under your foot. This combines cold therapy with light massage. You can also use a tennis ball or massage roller to loosen tight foot muscles. These steps are easy to do and often bring fast, noticeable improvement when done consistently.
4. Night Splints for Morning Pain Relief
For many, the worst heel pain happens with the first few steps out of bed. This is because the tightening of the plantar fascia occurs overnight. Night splints can be very helpful by keeping your foot in a stretched position while you sleep.
Use Night Splints for Better Results
These splints gently hold your foot at a 90-degree angle, preventing the tissue from shortening. While it may feel odd at first, many patients report noticeable relief within a few weeks.
Night splints are helpful for those who are having symptoms for a longer duration. They are safe, easy to use, and non-invasive, making them a great option to try before considering advanced treatment methods.
5. Pain Relief with Medication and Compression
Sometimes, plantar fasciitis pain can be strong enough to affect your mood, focus, or sleep. In these cases, over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen can help. These reduce both pain and swelling so your body can heal more comfortably.
Give a chance to Compression Socks.
You might also try compression socks. These support your arches and improve circulation in the foot, helping you move more comfortably throughout the day. Many people prefer wearing compression socks in long work shifts or while standing for extended periods.
Though these treatments don’t fix the root problem, they are excellent tools to manage symptoms while you recover.
6. Lifestyle Changes That Support Healing
Daily habits matter more than most people realize when it comes to foot health. Making a few small changes in your daily routine can reduce heel pain and help you recover faster. One of the simplest steps is to stop walking barefoot on hard floors. Even at home, wear cushioned slippers or sandals with arch support.
Choose Exercises Wisely
If you’re accustomed to intense workouts, change high-impact exercises like running with lower-impact ones like swimming or cycling until the pain subsides. Take breaks during long walks or shopping trips around Woodland Hills. Every bit of reduced pressure helps your foot recover. Also, if you’re carrying extra weight, losing just a few pounds can ease the burden on your plantar fascia.
7. When to Seek Professional Help
Sometimes, home care and lifestyle changes are not enough. If the heel pain in your foot continues for more than two weeks or if it starts to limit your movement, it’s important to seek professional help. Waiting too long can turn a small problem into a larger one.
Choose a Good Foot Specialist
A good foot specialist can provide a complete evaluation, confirm the diagnosis, and create a treatment plan as per your condition.
Whether the solution is custom orthotics, splints, therapy, or advanced procedures like shockwave therapy, a personalized approach is the best way to heal quickly and safely. If you’ve tried several remedies with little improvement, don’t delay professional care—it can save you months of unnecessary pain.
Local Expert Care in Woodland Hills
Living with plantar fasciitis doesn’t mean you have to give up the things you love. Whether it’s walking at Woodland Hills parks, working long shifts, or enjoying time outdoors, your feet deserve comfort and care. Right support, Right Treatment, and yes, recovery are possible—and often faster than you think.
Trusted Name, Excellent Treatment, This is What You Need
If you’re in need of professional plantar fasciitis treatment in Woodland Hills, Dr. Jones Hormozi at Valley Foot & Ankle Center offers trusted, expert care.
With a focus on personalized, non-invasive treatments, Dr. Hormozi helps patients get back on their feet with confidence. So get up and take the first step toward relief; your feet will thank you.
5 Frequently Asked Questions About Plantar Fasciitis in Woodland Hills
What causes plantar fasciitis to develop?
It usually develops from overuse, poor footwear, standing for long hours, or sudden changes in physical activity. Most of the time, tight calf muscles and flat feet can also contribute.
How long does it take to heal from plantar fasciitis?
With proper treatment, most cases improve in 6 to 12 weeks. Chronic conditions may take longer but respond well to consistent care and lifestyle adjustments.
Is plantar fasciitis curable without a doctor?
Yes, mild cases often respond to rest, ice, stretches, and proper shoes. But if the pain doesn’t improve, it’s best to see a podiatrist to prevent complications.
Are custom orthotics really required?
Yes, in many cases, custom orthotics provide support to your foot shape and walking pattern, often reducing strain more effectively than store-bought insoles.
Is walking good or bad for plantar fasciitis?
Moderate walking with supportive shoes is good for the feet. However, long walks on hard surfaces or walking barefoot can worsen the condition, especially during flare-ups.
