Plantar Fasciitis – Heel Pain
Could you have plantar fasciitis?
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 can you help with Plantar Fasciitis?
Treatments 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
Get a proper diagnosis!
There are over 40 causes of heel pain, and although plantar fasciitis is the most common one, it is important to get the correct diagnosis before starting any treatment regime.
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.