Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain that involves inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot and connects your heel bone to your toes. This tissue acts like a shock absorber and supports the arch of your foot, helping you walk. However, too much pressure on the plantar fascia can cause damage or tears in the tissue, resulting in heel pain and stiffness.

Plantar Fasciitis Symptoms

A common symptom of this condition is a sharp pain near the heel, particularly when taking the first steps after waking up. Although the pain may subside when walking, it can come back after standing for prolonged periods or when rising from a seated position after a long time.

Plantar Fasciitis or Heel Pain Causes

Plantar fasciitis is a condition that is often seen in runners, overweight individuals, and people who wear footwear lacking proper support. Additional risk factors may include being between the ages of 40 and 60, participating in activities that cause a lot of stress on the heel and surrounding tissue, having flat feet, high arches, or an unusual walking pattern, or having a job requiring prolonged standing periods.

Plantar Fasciitis Diagnosis

Typically, diagnosis involves a physical exam and review of medical history. Imaging tests such as X-rays or MRIs are usually unnecessary but may be used to rule out other issues.

Heel Pain / Plantar Fasciitis Treatment

The usual way of treating this heel and arch pain involves non-invasive approaches such as:

• Rest and apply ice to reduce inflammation while avoiding any activities that may cause pain.
• Using over-the-counter painkillers such as ibuprofen.
• Physiotherapy, including exercises to improve posture and strengthen muscles.
• Custom-fitted arch supports known as orthotics.

Other plantar fasciitis treatment options your podiatrist may recommend include:

• Orthotic shoe inserts customised to your foot posture
• Specific exercise and stretching regimen for the foot
• Footwear assessment and advice
• Special strapping and padding techniques
• Steroid injections or corticosteroid injections
• Shockwave therapy
• Dry needling
• Lifestyle changes
• Special shoes or splints
• Weight loss
• Management of the underlying systemic condition
• Surgery (surgical options are generally considered a last resort)

Consulting a healthcare provider is crucial for an accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment plan.

Are you experiencing heel pain and looking for treatment options near Morley and Bayswater? Galleria Podiatry in Morley can provide personalised management based on the type of heel pain, its cause, and its duration. Pain relief can be achieved quickly with the right exercises and heel pain treatment plan.