Plantar Fasciitis aka ‘heel pain’
Plantar heel pain is the most common injury that Podiatrists treat. Contrary to the common belief that the pain is a Heel Spur, it is more often than not discomfort/irritation of the Plantar Fascia. The Plantar Fascia is a band/fascia of connective tissue that runs from the heel to the base of the toes. This fascia is the main supportive structure through your arch and takes the majority of the load whilst you are walking.
Heel pain will usually occur firstly in the morning or after a period of rest. The pain can be described as “stabbing” “sharp” pain located under the heel. This pain can be also felt through the arch of the foot.
Why Did I get it?
Plantar Fasciitis can be caused by many factors & is most commonly seen in the active middle aged population (women > men). Most patients with Heel pain can often relate to many of the following signs, symptoms & risk factors:
- Pain when rising (especially in morning)
- Incorrect footwear
- Tight Calf muscles
- Flat & High – arched feet
- Prolonged standing especially on hard surfaces
- Sudden increase in weight
Sudden change or increase in activity levels.
Possible Treatments?
- Padding & strapping
- Calf stretches
- Footwear advice
- Custom Orthotics
- Shockwave therapy
- Neuromuscular Needling
- Rest
- Massage ball or a frozen bottle
- Compression FS6 sleeve
Prognosis:
Although Plantar Fasciitis is extremely painful, approximately 95% of cases respond to conservative treatment. This may take up to 6 months depending on how long the inflammation has been present & how severe the pain has become. Surgery is very rarely recommended, however is an option for chronic cases that show no improvement to conservative treatments.
