Preparing for an appointment

While you may initially consult your family physician, he or she may refer you to a doctor who specializes in foot disorders or sports medicine.

What you can do

You may want to write a list that includes:

• Your symptoms, and when they started
• Key personal information, including your and your family's medical history and activities you do that could have contributed to your symptoms
• All the medications, vitamins or other supplements you take, including doses
• Questions to ask the doctor

For plantar fasciitis, basic questions to ask your doctor include:

• What's likely causing my symptoms?
• Other than the most likely cause, what are other possible causes for my symptoms?
• What tests do I need?
• Is my condition likely temporary or chronic?
• What's the best course of action?
• What are the alternatives to the primary approach you're suggesting?
• Are there restrictions I need to follow?
• Should I see a specialist?
• Are there brochures or other printed material I can have? What websites do you recommend?

Don't hesitate to ask other questions.

What to expect from your doctor

Your doctor is likely to ask you questions, such as:

• Do your symptoms tend to occur at a particular time of day?
• What types of shoes do you usually wear?
• Are you a runner, or do you participate in any sports that involve running?
• Do you have a physically demanding job?
• Have you had problems with your feet before?
• Do you feel pain anywhere besides your feet?
• What, if anything, seems to improve your symptoms?
• What, if anything, appears to worsen your symptoms?