Newcastle Podiatry Plantar Fasciitis heel pain

HOW WE CAN HELP YOU...

Plantar Fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain we see. The Plantar Fascia is a band of connective tissue that runs from the heel bone to the forefoot bones. Plantar fasciitis means inflammation of the plantar fascia. This band of connective tissues is not designed to stretched, and due to certain biomechanical abnormalities of your foot, or other factors outlined below, it can become inflamed, strained or even develop micro-tears. Often pain is felt at the weakest point of the tissue: where it inserts on the heel bone.

The greatest incidence of heel pain is seen in middle-aged mean and women, those who take part in regular sporting activities and those who are overweight and on their feet a lot. It is also believed that higher arches, flatter arches or feet that roll in too much can also play a part as this can all put strain on the plantar fascia which is not designed to take these different forces of gait. Some of these factors in conjunction with poor footwear choices, biomechanical abnormalities of the feet and muscles imbalances can all cause plantar fasciitis.

How will we treat plantar fasciitis?

If pain and other symptoms of inflammation (swelling and redness) persist you should limit your normal daily activities and consult your podiatrist. There are many different causes of heel pain and it is important to get an opinion from a health professional to correctly diagnose and treat the condition.

Early treatment of plantar fasciitis may include: a tailored exercise program, including stretching and strengthening, footwear modifications/recommendations, taping or strapping, or manual therapies such as muscle release, dry- needling and/or massage. Treatment for chronic plantar fasciitis may also require some additional control to provide extra support, in which case orthoses (shoe inserts) specifically made to suit your needs may also be prescribed.