Managing Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar facsiitis is one of the most common conditions effecting the foot which we come across regularly in clinic. Here you can find out more about the common causes of heel pain and how to treat it. 

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue that runs on the bottom of the foot from the heel bone to the ball of the foot. When this becomes irritated and inflamed it is know as plantar fasciitis. Typically the pain is focused in the heel, however it can be anywhere along the plantar fascia. Some people would even describe it as pain in the arch of their foot. 

Symptoms

Common symptoms of plantar fasciitis include 

• Pain in the heel or on the sole of the foot

• Pain that is worse first thing in the morning or after resting which improves after some walking

• Pain when walking or standing for too long

Diagnosis & Management

For diagnosis and management, I recommend starting with a biomechanical assessment as treatment options can vary and there may be secondary symptoms or other causes of your heel pain which may require alternative treatment methods. 

The best treatment methods for plantar fasciitis include:

• Appropriate footwear

• Taping for temporary offloading 

• Custom insoles (Orthotics) to offload and provide pain relief so you can proceed with rehabilitation exercises

• Rehabilitation exercises - stretching and strengthening 

• Shockwave Therapy

• Corticosteroid injections in severe cases

Often Plantar fasciitis requires combination therapy, involving multiple treatment methods. Treatment always varies from person to person. Depending on the outcome of your assessment, depends on where we start our treatment plan. Working out the cause and providing pain relief before putting a robust plan in place for long term prevention. 

To find out how we can help, contact us today!