Plantar Fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain often found in females over 45 years old, although younger people, as well as males, may experience it. The plantar fascia is a thin layer of tough connective tissue that supports the arch of the foot. Plantar Fasciitis is the inflammation of the connective tissue. Plantar Fasciitis can present as severe heel pain when standing up in the morning (‘first-step’ pain), and may radiate up to the calf muscles or down towards the toes. Often, pain may subside for a few hours during the day, but then increase with ongoing activity or when putting weight on the foot following a period of rest. At times, pain may seem to be “moving around” the foot, but patients will feel tenderness and pain at the heel bone (Calcaneus).

 

Factors which contribute to the presentation of Plantar Fasciitis can vary from foot pronation (flat foot), muscle tightness, obesity, and high arches. A person participating in endurance sports such as running and dancing, or occupation which requires prolonged walking or standing, is at increased risk for developing Plantar Fasciitis.

 

Medical and pharmacological managements may be used to reduce inflammation, yet those may only provide short-term relief to pain. As such, physiotherapy has been proven to provide a long-term relief for pain, assist in prevention of recurring episodes of Plantar Fasciitis through a combination of activities modification and education, massage, stretches, and a tailored strength and home exercise program.

 

If you have foot pain, physiotherapists are trained to detect the source of the pain, provide treatment to relieve the symptoms, and teach you how to make changes to prevent recurrent foot injuries.

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If you would like to make an appointment, click here to make an online booking, or call (07) 3211 8775 to speak with our friendly reception staff. 

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