Question
QUESTION: I an being treated for planters fasciitis on my left foot, i have received two injections and my foot is a little better, but I'm concerned about my calf muscle. There is an indention just below the calf muscle on my left leg and recently has developed on my right leg. I am prone to tight calf muscles because of back problems. I have had two surgeries on L5-S1. Could the calf muscle indention be related to my back problems?

ANSWER: Can definitely be caused by the back surgery.
Following this kind of surgery there is sometimes atrophy (weakness) of some of the leg muscles.
Tight calves cause back problems. Back problems do not cause tight calves unless there is sciatica.
If you don't resolve the tight calf issue, the heel pain will not go away. Number one cause of plantar fasciitis is tight calves.
If your treating physician didn't recognize this -seek another opinion
Orthotics with heel lifts would help as would physical therapy
If the areas of indentation are warm-have them looked right away!
Your diagnosis should be easy with a podiatrist that specializes in orthopedics. He/She will watch you walk and be able to tell if it's from L5-S1 by a good hands on exam.

Hope this helps
Dr George Tsatsos

Not med advice-just info for all

Visit AnkleNFoot.com for a recent email blast regarding plantar fasciitis--if can't find- email us at [email protected]


---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you! I did ask the dr about the back problem being associated with the foot problem, he kind of blew it off. He did give me some orthotics.  I do feel it's related. I do notice the indentions are worse after I walk for a while. I have not noticed any redness. Should I apply heat before walking and ice after?

Answer
I am an advanced skier and martial artist
I'm fully aware of how the body is connected. Not because I'm so smart-but because I get injuries and try to get back to my sports ASAP
Pronation (low arches)causes pelvic rotation, may enhance sciatica and causes mild lordosis (inward curving) of the spine at the pelvis
Most of the population is able to deal with these mechanics--but if there is less required movement in one area-the body always compensates by increased movement elsewhere. These forces can be intensified by increased weight and activity.
You said he gave you orthotics.....If they are not prescribed with your specific mechanics analyzed---then their success rate goes down
Forget the heat
Do good stretches and follow with a lot of ice
Try for three weeks and if it doesn't work----find a Doc who will
LISTEN TO YOU!

Good Luck Again
Not Advise again
For Information Only
Dr George Tsatsos
AnkleNFoot.com