A 65-year-old overweight patient diagnosed with plantar fasciitis has not improved after initial treatment. What should be the follow-up care plan?

Continuing NSAIDs and applying an arch support is an appropriate follow-up care plan for a patient with plantar fasciitis who has not improved with initial treatment. Plantar fasciitis is often caused by excessive stress on the plantar fascia, particularly in overweight individuals.

Providing arch support can help to alleviate the strain on the plantar fascia by redistributing weight more evenly across the foot, promoting better alignment, and reducing pain. Arch supports can enhance the biomechanical function of the foot, which is critical in managing this condition and improving patient outcomes.

In contrast, stopping NSAIDs in treatment may not be advisable as NSAIDs can help manage pain and inflammation associated with plantar fasciitis. While ordering an X-ray might be necessary if there's suspicion of a fracture or other complications, in the context of ongoing plantar fasciitis, it may not change the approach to treatment. Adding a metatarsal bar is not the most common or effective intervention for plantar fasciitis, as the condition primarily affects the heel and the plantar fascia, and this option may not address the primary issue at hand.