Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar Fasciitis is caused by excessive strain on the Plantar Fascia.  The plantar fascia is a band of tissue (fascia) which originates at the heel bone and extends to the insertion of all toes.  The main function of the Plantar Fascia is to support the arch of your foot. Overtime if there is repeated strain over this fascia, tiny tears can occur and can lead to inflammation, pain and swelling.  Plantar Fasciitis reportedly peaks in people between ages of 40 and 60 years in the general population and also in younger runners.  Some younger active people can also suffer this condition such as those involved in running and dancing due to the nature of the movements.

You are more likely to suffer from Plantar Fasciitis if:

• Your feet roll in
• You walk, stand or run for long periods of time (especially on hard surfaces)
• You wear inappropriate or non-supportive footwear
• You are overweight
• You have tight achilles tendons and/or calf muscles
• You have low arched feet (increased strain on the heel bone will be exerted whilst walking).
• You have high arched feet (there may be increased strain on the heel area because the foot cannot roll in order to absorb shock)
• You have had a traumatic event resulting in excessive force through the arch of your foot

Clinical signs of Plantar Fasciitis include:

• Pain in the first steps in the morning
• Pain under the heel when weight-bearing
• Localised tenderness at the heel bone, or up along the arch
• Pain is gradual and dull
• Pain decreases as activity increases
• A history of other leg or foot problems

 Come in and see one of our experienced Podiatrists who will diagnose the problem and use of of many modalities to treat the issue .