Plantar Fasciitis - The Most Common Cause of Heel Pain
Have you ever heard of Plantar Fascia? Unlikely. You don’t give plantar fascia much notice until the pain in your heel strikes you. Plantar fasciitis is a very common cause of heel pain.
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
The Plantar Fascia is tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot. It connects the heel to the front of your foot.
Plantar Fasciitis is the inflammation of the plantar fascia.
What is the cause of Plantar Fasciitis?
Overuse - activities that place added stress on the heel bone due to repetitive motions
Foot Type - flat foot (poor shock absorption resulting in greater strain on the plantar fascia) or high arches (tighter plantar fascia)
Pregnancy - increased pressure on the foot can cause inflammation
Poorly Designed Shoes - shoes that provide little or poor arch support or shoes that are too stiff
Middle Aged or Older - ageing muscles supporting the arch may become weaker over time
What are the symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis?
Dull or sharp pain under the heel. The pain is often worse in the morning as you take your first steps or after a period of rest such as sitting or standing for a long time, or after a period of intense activity such as sports.
You may also experience mild swelling in the heel.
What are the Treatment options for Plantar Fasciitis?
Wear Appropriate Shoes
It important that we give our feet the right support to ensure the plantar fascia is supported and prevent it from becoming inflamed. Shoes that provide good arch support are integral. When was the last time you changed your sports shoes?
The right shoes becomes imperative if you are on your feet for most of the day!
Stretching
Stressed muscles in your feet or calves can aggravate plantar fasciitis further. A Podiatrist can provide you with clear instructions on which exercises should be carried out in order to stretch the plantar fascia. Ice bottle massaging may also be recommended to help control the plantar fascia inflammation and pain.
Orthotics
A visit to the Podiatrist will help you determine whether you require orthotics to help distribute your weight more evenly and to stimulate foot muscles. The type of orthotics you require will vary greatly on your condition and foot type.
Medications
If plantar fasciitis persists for greater than six months, you may be prescribed medication such as Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to assist. Very occasionally surgery is also an option. However, it is important to remember, that medication does not replace the need to carry out the treatment options we have discussed above.
Visit the Podiatrists at ProPodiatry Clinic in Brunswick and South Melbourne should you have any concerns about Plantar Fasciitis or Heel Pain. To Book a Consult you may Book Online Or Call Our Clinics.