Plantar Fasciitis
That sharp pain in your heel when you take your first steps in the morning? It's likely plantar fasciitis — inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot. It's one of the most common conditions Dr. Wokasien treats. And in most cases, surgery isn't necessary.
Symptoms
- Sharp or stabbing pain in the bottom of the heel
- Pain that's worst with your first morning steps
- Pain after long periods of standing
- Pain that improves with walking but returns after rest
- Tenderness along the arch of the foot
Who Gets It
Plantar fasciitis is common in runners, people who stand for long periods, and those with flat feet or high arches. It's also more common after age 40 and in people carrying extra weight.
Austin's active culture — trail running at Brushy Creek, cycling in the Hill Country, standing through live music sets — puts real demands on feet. Dr. Wokasien sees this condition regularly in patients who want to stay active.
Treatment
Dr. Wokasien starts with conservative approaches:
- Targeted stretching protocols for the plantar fascia and calf muscles
- Custom orthotics to correct alignment and redistribute pressure
- Activity modifications that keep you moving while the tissue heals
- Anti-inflammatory strategies
- Night splints for stubborn cases
Surgery is a last resort, reserved for patients who haven't responded to months of conservative treatment.
When to Call
If heel pain has lasted more than two weeks, or if it's getting worse instead of better, call (512) 250-0444. The sooner plantar fasciitis is diagnosed, the faster it resolves. Waiting only makes it harder to treat. Saturday morning appointments are available.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does plantar fasciitis take to heal?
Most patients see significant improvement within 6-12 weeks of consistent treatment. Chronic cases — those ignored for months — can take longer. Starting treatment early is the single biggest factor in how quickly you recover.
Can I keep running with plantar fasciitis?
Sometimes, with modifications. Dr. Wokasien evaluates the severity and builds a plan that keeps you moving without making things worse. Running through sharp pain usually prolongs the injury. Activity modification isn't the same as stopping entirely.
Do I need custom orthotics or will OTC inserts work?
It depends on what's driving your condition. OTC insoles can help mild cases with good arch support. If your plantar fasciitis keeps coming back, or if biomechanical issues are the underlying cause, custom orthotics address the root problem rather than just cushioning it.
When is surgery necessary for plantar fasciitis?
Surgery is rarely needed — fewer than 5% of cases. Dr. Wokasien considers it only after conservative treatments have been tried consistently for at least 6-12 months without adequate relief. Most patients never reach that point.
What exercises should I avoid?
During an active flare, avoid high-impact activities like running on hard surfaces and jumping. Hill running puts extra strain on the plantar fascia. Barefoot walking on hard floors — especially first thing in the morning — is also a common aggravator.
What's the difference between plantar fasciitis and a heel spur?
Heel spurs are calcium deposits that form on the heel bone and often show up on X-rays in plantar fasciitis patients. But the spur itself usually isn't the pain source — the inflamed fascia is. Treating the fascia typically resolves the pain even when a spur is present.
Will it come back after treatment?
It can, especially if the underlying cause — gait mechanics, footwear, or training habits — isn't addressed. Dr. Wokasien focuses on the root cause, not just symptom relief, to reduce the chance of recurrence.