Plantar fasciitis is an overuse, inflammatory condition of the thick band of tissue on the sole of the foot (the plantar fascia). Pain is most noticeable under the plantar fascia attachment to the heel bone. It’s often referred to as heel spur in layman’s term.
Causes
Excessive rolling in of the feet may increase the strain on the plantar fascia and cause pain
Excessive standing and walking
Improper shoes. Avoid loose, thin-soled shoes, as well as shoes without enough arch support or flexible padding to absorb shock
Age. It is more common between the ages of 40 and 60
Certain types of exercise. Activities that place a lot of stress on the heels and arch such as long distance running, ballet dancing, aerobics and jumping – can all contribute to the early onset of plantar fasciitis
Over-weight. Excess weight puts extra stress on the plantar fascia
Symptoms
Pain under the heel usually worsens first thing in the morning, and gradually improves after a few minutes of walking. The same can happen when patients stand up after a period of prolonged sitting
Pain can be felt when pressing on the inside of the heel and sometimes along the arch
As the condition becomes more severe the pain can get worse throughout the day, increasing when standing and after exercising
Although X-ray may show a heel spur numerous studies have shown there is no relationship between between the spur and the pain. The pain is caused by excessive strain on the medial column of the arch and the plantar fascia
Treatment
Foot orthoses to support the arches and reduce the strain on the plantar fascia
Supportive footwear
Shockwave therapy to relieve pain and promote healing
Dry needling
Non-steroid anti-inflammation medications
Corticosteroid injection
Want to know more?
9586 3046
For further information on this condition or any other foot problem, please contact our friendly staff of Podiatrists at Peel Podiatry Clinic
