Plantar Fasciitis
WHAT IS PLANTAR FASCIITIS?
Plantar Fasciitis is a common, yet often misunderstood foot ailment characterised by a sharp, stabbing pain that typically occurs in the heel and/or arch of the foot. It stems from trauma of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, connecting your heel bone to your toes and creating your foot’s arch.
This discomfort is most pronounced with your first steps in the morning or after prolonged periods of sitting or standing and can seemingly come out of nowhere to hinder your daily activities. Often the result of repetitive stress and strain, plantar fasciitis can afflict anyone but is most frequently found in runners, individuals who stand for long periods of time, and those wearing shoes with inadequate support or cushioning.
At Foot Health Podiatry, we understand how plantar fasciitis can limit your lifestyle. Our experienced team of Podiatrists are here to offer expert diagnosis, advice, and treatment tailored to restore your feet to their natural, pain-free state.
WHAT CAUSES PLANTAR FASCIITIS?
Plantar fasciitis is a result of strain on the plantar fascia, the long band of tissue connecting your heel to your toes. This condition can be brought about by various contributing factors:
- Repetitive Stress: Engaging in activities that place a lot of stress on the heel—like long-distance running, jumping, or ballet dancing—can initiate micro-tears in the fascia.
- Improper Footwear: Wearing shoes that don’t provide adequate support, or cushioning can increase the risk of developing plantar fasciitis, especially if you have high arches or flat feet.
- Excess Weight: Carrying extra body weight puts additional stress on the plantar fascia, often leading to inflammation and pain over time.
- Occupational Hazards: Jobs that require you to be on your feet for long periods, particularly on hard surfaces, can contribute to strain on your plantar fascia.
- Age: As we age, the plantar fascia loses some of its elasticity and becomes more susceptible to irritation. Plantar fasciitis is most common in people between the ages of 25 and 65.
- Foot Mechanics: Abnormal walking patterns can create undue tension in the plantar fascia, leading to plantar fasciitis.
At Foot Health Podiatry, we assess all these potential causes when evaluating your foot pain. Our goal is to not only treat the pain but to address the underlying issue, ensuring long-term relief and foot health.
HOW CAN PLANTAR FASCIITIS BE TREATED?
At Foot Health Podiatry, we believe in a multifaceted approach to treating plantar fasciitis, with strategies designed to alleviate pain and prevent recurrence. Our treatments focus on reducing inflammation, healing the fascia, supporting the fascia, and correcting any biomechanical issues that might contribute to plantar fasciitis. Here’s how we can tackle it together:
Ultrasound Imaging
We offer point of care ultrasound imaging of the Plantar Fascia, this allows dynamic, real-time imaging to enhance diagnostic accuracy and guide intervention to treat the Plantar Fascia.
Orthotics/Insoles
Personalised insoles can redistribute pressure on your feet to relieve stress on the plantar fascia.
Exercises
We provide guided stretches and exercises designed to strengthen the plantar fascia, Achilles tendon, and lower leg muscles, enhancing foot stability and flexibility.
Shockwave Therapy
Non-invasive shockwave therapy can promote tissue healing and pain relief for plantar fasciitis cases.
K Laser Therapy
Non-invasive K Laser therapy can effectively reduce inflammation and promote tissue healing in the plantar fascia, leading to significant pain relief.
Lifestyle Changes
Small adjustments in your daily life, such as reducing time spent on hard surfaces and selecting proper footwear, can have a significant impact.
Rest assured, our team at Foot Health Podiatry are dedicated to helping you reclaim your mobility and enjoy life without the nagging heel pain plantar fasciitis brings. Let us guide you toward lasting relief with tailored treatments and compassionate care.
