Question

A 26 year old male was recently diagnosed with plantar fasciitis. He says he experiences sharp pain and stiffness in the affected foot each morning. However, this pain usually fades by the time he is ready for work. Which of the following treatments would have the lowest priority at this time?

1) Physical therapy
2) Night splints
3) Over-the-counter pain medication
4) Surgery

Answer 1

The treatment with the lowest priority for a recent diagnosis of plantar fasciitis in a 26-year-old male is surgery, since conservative treatments like physical therapy, night splints, and pain medication should be attempted first.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the case of a 26-year-old male diagnosed with plantar fasciitis, evaluating treatment priorities is important to manage symptoms effectively.

Among the listed treatment options, surgery would have the lowest priority, especially if the condition is recent and the other conservative treatments have not been exhausted. Initial treatment for plantar fasciitis typically involves physical therapy, the use of night splints to stretch the plantar fascia overnight, and over-the-counter pain medication to manage pain.

These methods are less invasive and aim to reduce inflammation and improve the condition without immediate surgical intervention.