Dreading those first few steps in the morning or at the end of the day? While the pain is worse first and last thing in the day, it can also be triggered from long periods of standing or when you get up from sitting. Interesting, the pain can be slight to non-existent during periods of exercise.
Sounds familiar? You could be suffering from a condition called Plantar Fasciitis.
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar Fasciitis is the term that refers to inflammation (“-itis”) of the connective tissue (“Fascia”) under the base of the foot (“Plantar”). It usually occurs at the point where the plantar fascia originates at the heel bone.
What causes Plantar Fasciitis?
While there may be no obvious cause of the start of Plantar Fasciitis, there are a few factors that increase your risk at developing this condition.
- Age. Plantar fasciitis is most common (but not limited) to people between the ages of 40 and 60.
- Exercise. Activities that place a lot of stress on your heel (long distance running, dancing, HIT classes, jumping) can all be contributing factors.
- Foot Mechanics. Flat feet, high arches or abnormal walking pattern
- Weight. Excess weight puts more pressure and stress on all your joints, ligaments and tendons, especially your plantar fascia in your feet.
- Occupation. Standing on hard surfaces can damage the plantar fascia, so it goes without saying that any occupation that requires long hours of standing or walking are at risk of developing plantar fasciitis.
Treatment
Where can I get help for Plantar Fasciitis?
The big question is: “Should you see a GP, a Physiotherapist or a Podiatrist for plantar fasciitis heel pain?”
Just like your dentist specialises in teeth and oral problems, podiatrists specialise in feet and heel pain problems. There are times when Physiotherapists and General Practitioners can work wonders for many problems, but your best first contact is a podiatrist experienced in the treatment of plantar fasciitis. Fortunately, the podiatrists at Gait Way Podiatry have over 45 years of combined experience in the treatment of plantar fasciitis and associated heel pain.
Don’t delay, BOOK AN APPOINTMENT TODAY: (07) 3385 0567
The treatment you require depends on what we diagnose, but most common options include exercise, shockwave therapy, mobilisations or orthotics.
What can I do at home to help my Plantar Fasciitis?
- Calf stretches – slow controlled stretches for at least 30 seconds against a wall is a simple yet effective way to help reduce strain on those heels.
- Footwear change – look to avoid completely flat shoes and those without any cushioning. One with both cushioning, support and a slight heel are ideal.
- Loose Weight – Weight loss is a great way to reduce the forces on your feet which applied to the heel also.
What else could cause this heel pain?
Your heel pain could be from a variety of conditions such as a heel spur, muscle tear, tendonitis or bursitis. Each condition needing a different diagnostic assessment and treatment, which is why it’s important to get an expert to diagnose the issue.
So, if your heel pain has not responded to traditional therapy, there may be something else that has been missed, and the podiatrists at Gait Way Podiatry are trained to find these problems.
BOOK AN APPOINTMENT TODAY: (07) 3385 0567
Our blogs are educational in nature and are not intended as a substitute for medical advice. Because your condition is unique to you, it is recommended that you consult with your health care provider before attempting any medical or therapeutic treatments.