Plantar fasciitis (sometimes referred to as plantar fasciopathy or plantar heel pain) is one of the most common causes of heel pain.
The plantar fascia is a band of connective tissue that runs along the sole of the foot from the heel to the toes. It supports the arch of the foot and also acts as a shock-absorber.
It is thought that plantar fasciitis is an overuse injury. Overuse occurs when there is an imbalance between the strength/capacity of the plantar fascia and the load that we are putting through it. This overuse causes the plantar fascia to become thickened, irritated and painful.
Causes:
- Spending more time on your feet than usual
- Recently starting to exercise on different surfaces or an increase in the intensity of exercise
- Wearing shoes with poor cushioning
- Being overweight
- Psychological stress, increasing age and changes in hormone levels can have an impact of the strength/capacity of the plantar fascia.
Signs and Symptoms:
- Pain on the underside of the heel
- Pain on the first steps in the morning or the first steps after long periods of sitting
- Pain that improves with movement.
Treatment:
If you suspect you have plantar fasciitis myself or one of my colleagues will make a diagnosis based on a thorough examination. An individualised treatment plan will be tailored specifically to your needs and abilities. Treatment may include hands on therapy, stretching and strengthening exercises.
If you are suffering with symptoms of plantar fasciitis, we’d love to help you.
Please note that information provided in this article is general advice only. For individual advice, we recommend a consultation. For more information or to book an appointment, you can…
- Contact our friendly reception team on 9822 4999 (Armadale) or 9486 0512 (East Melbourne)
- Book online. Select ‘make a booking’ in the top right-hand corner of the screen and follow the prompts
- Email us on fitwise@fitwise.com.au
