Plantar Fasciitis
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.
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What causes plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis, or the inflammation and pain in the plantar fascia, is often caused by;
- An increase to your level of activity, such as taking up a new sport or starting a running program
- The structure and shape of the individual foot
- The surface that is being stood on at any time
- The type of shoes that are being worn (comfortable shoes that fit correctly are less likely to cause any foot problems)
- Body weight can also cause plantar fasciitis to worsen as more weight is being supported by the foot
- Other medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis
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.
How is plantar fasciitis diagnosed?
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.
How can The Nantwich Clinic help with my plantar fasciitis?
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.
Get Plantar Fasciitis treatment in Nantwich today!
Call now: 01270 627118
Book your plantar fasciitis treatment appointment with The Nantwich Clinic by calling the number above.
Alternatively, you can use the link below to book online.
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