What is Plantar Fasciitis & how do we treat it?

May 12, 2020 | Heel Pain

What is Plantar Fasciitis & how do we treat it?

Plantar Fasciitis is a stubborn injury and a common cause of heel pain. It develops when the band of fibres along the bottom of the foot connecting the heel bone to the toes (also creating the arch of the foot) become inflamed. It can start as a minor injury but develop over time if not treated promptly or properly.

Unfortunately, there is no way of knowing if you’ll develop this injury but there are certain factors that make some more at risk than others. This blog will discuss what the risk factors are, the symptoms you may have and how Plantar Fasciitis can be effectively treated.

 

What are the common risk factors?

There are various reasons that someone can be at risk of Plantar Fasciitis. The most common reasons are;

  • Age – Plantar fasciitis is most common between the ages of 40 and 60
  • Exercise – Activities that place a lot of stress on your heel and attached tissue such as running or jogging, high impact sports like basketball, football and soccer, ballet dancing and aerobic dance — can contribute to the onset of plantar fasciitis
  • Foot mechanics.Flat feet, high arch or even an abnormal pattern of walking can affect the way weight is distributed when you’re standing and can put added stress on the plantar fascia
  • Body Weight – Those with a high BMI can put extra stress on their Plantar Fascia
  • Occupation – Factory workers, teachers, trades people, nurses and others who spend most of their work hours walking or standing on hard surfaces can damage their plantar fascia.

So how do you know if you have Plantar Fasciitis?

The following symptoms are commonly associated with Plantar Fasciitis;

  • Pain when you wake up in the morning
  • Pain in the first steps after rest
  • Sharp or dull pain
  • The pain dulls once you get moving

If you are experiencing this type of pain, seek advice from a Podiatrist. A Podiatrist will diagnose you with Plantar Fasciitis after performing various tests and examinations on your feet.

heel-apin

 

How do you treat it if you do have it?

Plantar Fasciitis can be treated successfully in most causes. Treatment might include;

  • Stretching and Strengthening Exercises
  • Shockwave Therapy
  • Low Level Laser Therapy
  • Foot Mobilisation Technique
  • Dry Needling
  • Custom-Made Orthotics
  • Footwear

Moreland Podiatry & how to treat Plantar Fasciitis

With the ability to listen and analyse your individual symptoms, we are able to provide an extensive range of treatments which sets us as leaders in the treatment of heel pain. Don’t hesitate to call us or book online – we are conveniently located in Brunswick West.