At various junctures in our lives, many of us encounter discomfort in and around our feet. This discomfort can manifest as various types of pain, including discomfort in the heel, the ankle, or even the arch of the foot. However, when it comes to heel pain, it encompasses a spectrum of intensity, spanning from a mild twinge to a more profound and enduring sensation. While some people might notice a slight discomfort or ache in their heels after prolonged periods of standing or walking, others may experience sharper and more persistent sensations that can impede their ability to walk or engage in routine activities. Luckily, you can easily get rid of heel pain by visiting a podiatry clinic. An experienced podiatrist in Mandurah will assess your foot’s condition and provide you with the best treatment accordingly.
Did you know that plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain? Well, that’s true. Plantar fasciitis is a common, painful condition that affects the feet, particularly the heel area. Want to know more about plantar fasciitis? Well, keep reading the blog until the end.
5 Key Points That You Should Know About Plantar Fasciitis
Here are some of the most important points that you should know about plantar fasciitis:
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What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is characterised by the inflammation of the plantar fascia, a robust tissue band linking the heel bone to the toes. This condition can cause discomfort and hinder normal activities, but with proper understanding and management, relief and recovery are attainable.
If you live in or around Mandurah and are experiencing persistent heel pain, visit Peel Podiatry Clinic. We will conduct a physical examination of your foot and provide you with the best plantar fasciitis treatment in Mandurah.
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What Are the Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis?
Recognising the early signs of plantar fasciitis can help you seek treatment and manage the condition before it worsens. Some of the common symptoms include:
Heel Pain: The primary symptom is a sharp, stabbing pain in the bottom of the foot near the heel. The pain is often most intense with the first steps in the morning or after periods of rest.
Pain After Rest: Pain and discomfort can also occur after sitting for a while and then getting up to walk.
Increased Pain With Activity: Activities that put pressure on the feet, such as walking, running, or standing for extended periods, can exacerbate the pain.
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What Are the Treatment Options?
At Peel Podiatry Clinic, we offer a wide range of treatment options. The two most sought-after treatments include:
Custom Orthotics: Orthotics help redistribute pressure and provide proper arch support, which reduces strain on the plantar fascia. They also promote more balanced foot mechanics, addressing factors that contribute to plantar fasciitis.
Shockwave Therapy: During shockwave therapy, a device generates acoustic waves that are directed to the affected area of the plantar fascia. The waves create microtrauma, triggering the body’s natural healing response.
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What Are the Risk Factors for Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis can develop due to a combination of factors, including:
Improper Footwear: Wearing shoes with inadequate support, cushioning, or poor arch structure can contribute to the development of plantar fasciitis.
Foot Mechanics: Having flat feet, high arches, or an abnormal gait can alter foot mechanics and increase stress on the plantar fascia.
Obesity: Excess body weight places additional strain on the feet and can contribute to inflammation of the plantar fascia.
Age: Plantar fasciitis is more common in middle-aged individuals, as the plantar fascia tends to lose elasticity over time.
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What Are the Best Ways to Prevent Plantar Fasciitis?
You can take several steps to prevent plantar fasciitis. Some of them include:
- Opt for shoes with proper arch support, cushioning, and shock absorption, and make sure to avoid wearing flat shoes or those with inadequate support.
- Perform calf and plantar fascia stretches to maintain flexibility and prevent tightness.
- To ease the load on your heels, maintain a healthy weight. This helps reduce the strain on your feet and lower the risk of developing plantar fasciitis.
- Try to minimise walking or standing on hard surfaces for extended periods, especially without appropriate footwear.
The Bottom Line
Plantar fasciitis can be extremely painful and affect your day-to-day activities. However, with early recognition and appropriate care, you can find relief and return to your daily activities with minimal discomfort. Should you be looking for an experienced podiatrist in Mandurah, get in touch with our team at Peel Podiatry Clinic. We will guide you through a customised treatment plan and recovery period. Should you want to know more on the subject, call (08) 9586 3046.