Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. The plantar fascia is the band of connective tissue that runs from the heel, along the bottom of the foot, connecting to the toes. It is an important structure to provide support and stability for your good.
At times due to overuse, reduced range of motion or tightness in the muscles around the ankle you can experience pain or discomfort around this area. One of the most common causes of this heel pain is Plantar fasciitis and is due to inflammation or tears in the plantar fascia.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
- Repetitive strain injury to the plantar fascia, such as excessive running or walking
- Wearing shoes with inadequate support
- being overweight
- increase in training load
- Rheumatoid conditions such as reactive arthritis
Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis
- Stabbing pain and tenderness along the bottom of the foot near the heel. The pain can be particularly heightened in the mornings, and after prolonged periods of standing.
- Exercising can lessen the pain, but inactivity can increase it.
- Walking on hard surfaces with bare feet can be difficult.
- Sometimes swelling and tenderness of the sole of the foot may be experienced
It is important not to ignore these symptoms. Plantar Fasciitis may result in chronic heel pain, that can impact on daily activities. As a result of the pain experienced, patients may be changing the way they walk to minimise pain – this can lead to foot, knee, hip or back problems.
How Can Physiotherapy Help?
A physiotherapist can complete a comprehensive assessment to establish the cause and prescribe a focused treatment plan that incorporates manual therapy and a targeted exercise program aimed at improving the flexibility and strength in their foot, ankle and lower limb
- Treatments such as soft tissue massage, can also be administered to help provide some pain relief
- Taping to offload the plantar fascia can be used in the initial stages of recovery to aid in reducing the load on the plantar fascia
- Orthotics may be recommended by a physiotherapist to help reduce the level of pressure on the plantar fascia. These could include arch supports and heel pads.
If you are experiencing heel pain don’t hesitate to contact us today to book your consultation where the Physiotherapist will complete comprehensive assessment and develop a tailored treatment plan to have you back doing the activates you love in the fastest time possible.
Call us today on 02 9869 1970 or book online.