Plantar fasciitis is one of the common conditions that is known to cause heel pain, and is all related to the inflammation of the plantar fascia (hence the name). The plantar fascia is a tough band of fibrous tissue that runs from the heel to the base of the toes, across the sole of the foot, and is designed to help to support the arch of the foot during the normal mechanics of walking.
The tension within the plantar fascia increases when you put weight on the foot and when you walk, and with overuse or simply just time, the plantar fascia loses its elasticity and causes the pain known as plantar fasciitis.
Plantar fasciitis, or the inflammation and pain in the plantar fascia, is often caused by;
The pain associated with plantar fasciitis usually increases gradually over time and is often associated as pain in the heel. It tends to be at its worst when you have just woken up and is also known as “first-step pain” because of this. Plantar fasciitis can get easier to manage as you become more active during the day, but after prolonged activity can become worse.
Ignoring plantar fasciitis may result in chronic heel pain that hinders your regular activities. Changing the way you walk to minimise plantar fasciitis pain might lead to foot, knee, hip or back problems.
Plantar fasciitis can usually be diagnosed simply via a discussion regarding the symptoms that are being experienced and an examination of the foot.
This examination involves pressing different areas to see where the pain is caused, and can also involve being asked to walk on the foot or toes to see if any pain occurs.
In some cases, it’s possible that an x-ray or ultrasound scan may be required to rule out any other potential causes of pain such as a bone problem.
Most people who have plantar fasciitis recover after several months with conservative treatments, including resting, icing the painful area and stretching. Pain relief such as ibuprofen can help to ease the pain and associated inflammation of plantar fasciitis.
Prescribed exercises, shockwave therapy, orthotic therapy, manipulation and mobilisation techniques can all also help further.
Book your plantar fasciitis treatment appointment with The Nantwich Clinic by calling the number below.
Alternatively, you can use the link below to book online.
Whether it’s a quick question that you need to ask, or you would like to book an appointment with us, we want to hear from you. Simply click the button below to get started or contact us on 01270 627118.
