Plantar Fasciitis Heel Pain: Understanding the Condition
Could You Have Plantar Fasciitis? Discover the Best Ways to Heal
Plantar fasciitis is a common reason for heel pain. It is caused by inflammation in the plantar fascia, which is a tough band of tissue that stretches from the heel to the toes. Some of the fibres also extend round the heel and join with the Achilles tendon.
Plantar Fasciitis is an overuse injury, where multiple small injuries happen more quickly than the body can heal them, which causes inflammation. Onset is normally gradual, and there isn’t a specific trigger or injury that people can pinpoint as the cause.
Symptoms can include – pain on initial standing (often first thing in the morning) which eases off after walking for a short distance. Pain occurs under the heel, and may extend into the arch. After the pain has eased, it may return after a long period of walking.
It can be made worse by walking barefoot, wearing unsupportive shoes, standing for long periods of time, especially on hard floors, or increasing activity levels.
How to heal plantar fasciitis?
Heel plantar fasciitis treatment can involve – taping the foot to give support, exercises, footwear advice, orthotics, or treatments such as laser, shockwave or steroid injections for more chronic cases.
To help ease symptoms -
- Don’t walk barefoot, if possible. Wear supportive shoes or slippers
- Wear the correct footwear – supportive and not too flat.
- Stretch (properly!) - your podiatrist can advise you on this.
- Visit a Podiatrist. For the best treatment for plantar fasciitis heel pain, consult with your podiatrist to get tailored advice
Get a proper diagnosis!
There are 40 causes of pain, although heel pain due to plantar fasciitis is the most common one, so it is important to get the correct diagnosis before starting any treatment regime and if you're wondering, Plantar fasciitis—how long does it last? the answer can vary depending on the individual and the treatment plan.
Your local Podiatrist can help.
Find out more about us here.
The Royal College of Podiatry also have great foot health information on Plantar Fasciitis here.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
To treat plantar fasciitis:
- Rest: Avoid activities that put excessive stress on your heel.
- Stretching: Perform calf and plantar fascia stretches regularly.
- Orthotics: Use supportive shoes or custom orthotic inserts.
Two common symptoms of plantar fasciitis are:
1. Sharp pain in the heel or along the arch of the foot, especially noticeable with the first steps in the morning or after periods of inactivity
2. Increased pain after prolonged standing or after exercising, which can feel like a deep ache or a sharp, stabbing sensation.
Walking can be okay with plantar fasciitis, but it depends on the severity of your condition. If walking causes significant pain, it’s important to rest and avoid activities that aggravate the condition. Wearing supportive shoes and orthotics can help alleviate discomfort while walking. Gradually increasing activity levels and incorporating stretching exercises can also be beneficial.
Plantar fasciitis can heal on its own, but it often requires several months and consistent self-care measures. Without treatment, the condition can persist and worsen over time. Implementing proper rest, stretching, supportive footwear, and other conservative treatments can significantly speed up the healing process.
Plantar fasciitis is a common and often painful condition, but it is not typically considered serious. However, if left untreated, it can lead to chronic pain and complications that may affect mobility and quality of life. Seeking early treatment and following a consistent care plan can prevent the condition from becoming more severe.
Anna Conway
BSc (Hons), MCPod, SRCh, PGcert Podiatry
Owner, Lead Podiatrist