Having Heel Pain?
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain and is one of the most prevalent foot problems. It is caused by stretching, micro tears or a rupture of the plantar fascia, the fibrous band that supports the arch of the foot. The pain, most apparent in the heel, will be worst first thing in the morning when taking the first steps of the day, or after the sufferer starts to walk again after sitting for a long time.
Risk factors
Recently taken up new exercise e.g running
Over-pronation during gait
Pes Planus (flat) foot type
Inappropriate footwear
Being Overweight
Treatments for Plantar faciitis
Icing the area — rolling a bottle of water from the freezer under the foot
Stretching — Calf leg muscle and plantar fascia stretching and strengthening exercise programme. A stretching programme tailored to you can be prescribed to help stretch out the tight muscles that may be contributing to your plantar fasciitis
Orthotics — Address biomechanical issue(s) using custom made orthotics. Custom made foot orthotics can help correct biomechanical issues. They can reduce levels of over-pronation and redistribute pressures evenly in the foot
Strapping — Taping and strapping of the plantar fascia can reduce strain and give support to the plantar fascia
Avoiding barefoot walking. Barefoot walking can contribute to micro-tears in the plantar fascia
Footwear — Wearing proper fitting footwear with good support can help. When running wearing shoes with good shock absorption and cushioning helps support and take impact off the feet and plantar fascia
Medication — Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) such as Ibuprofen can help decrease inflammation in the area therefore relieving some of the pain being experienced. Always consult your doctor
Weight loss can help with symptoms in some cases
Our podiatrist can diagnose if your foot pain is in fact plantar fasciitis or another foot condition that affects the tendons, ligaments or bones in the heel and arch area of your foot
