What is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common foot conditions that we treat at Your Podiatry People. It involves inflammation and pain in the plantar fascia, a thick band of connective tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, connecting the heel bone (calcaneus) to the toes. The plantar fascia supports the arch of the foot by absorbing shock during walking and running.

What causes plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis typically occurs when the plantar fascia is subjected to excessive stress or repetitive strain, leading to tiny tears in the tissue. It is a common condition particularly among runners, athletes, individuals who spend long hours on their feet, as well as those that are overweight or gain sudden weight.

Plantar Fasciitis symptoms

Plantar fasciitis usually presents as a sharp or stabbing pain directly under the heel or arch of the foot, particularly when getting out of bed in the morning or after periods of inactivity.

It can also be painful throughout the day, and worse with exercise and/or jobs that require standing and/or walking all day. The arch can also become painful, as the plantar fascia extends to the ball of the foot and the toes.

Plantar Fasciitis treatment

• REST: Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation
• Ice application to reduce inflammation and provide pain relief
• Physical therapy
• Strength-based stretching exercises
• Orthotics
• Therapeutic massages
• Strapping

Invasive and rarely required treatments:

• Steroid injections
• Surgery