Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar Fasciitis is a common foot condition that affects many people across various age groups, including athletes, seniors, and even children. It is characterised by pain in the heel and arch of the foot, which is often worse in the morning or after periods of rest. The condition occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, becomes inflamed or irritated.

Causes of Plantar Fasciitis

Several factors can contribute to the development of plantar fasciitis:

– Overuse: Activities that put excessive stress on the feet, such as running, dancing, or prolonged standing, can lead to the condition. Athletes, particularly runners, may be at higher risk.
– Foot Structure: People with flat feet, high arches, or abnormal walking patterns may be more prone to plantar fasciitis due to the increased strain on the plantar fascia.
– Weight: Excess body weight can put additional pressure or strain on the plantar fascia.
– Improper Footwear: Wearing poorly structured shoes can contribute to the development of plantar fasciitis.

Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis

The most common symptom of plantar fasciitis is a sharp, stabbing pain in the heel or arch of the foot. This pain is usually most severe when taking the first steps in the morning or after sitting for long periods. It may also worsen after exercise or prolonged standing. Some people may experience swelling or stiffness in the affected area.

Diagnosis of Plantar Fasciitis

If you are experiencing heel pain or suspect you may have plantar fasciitis, it is important to seek professional advice as there can potentially be fifteen plus heel pain conditions. A podiatrist will typically diagnose the condition based on your medical history and a physical examination. In some cases, imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI’s or ultrasounds may be used to rule out other conditions, such as fractures or heel spurs.

Treatment Options for Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis can often be managed with conservative treatments. Your podiatrist may recommend the following:

– Rest and Activity Modification: Reducing activities that aggravate the condition, such as running or standing for long periods, can help alleviate symptoms.
– Stretching Exercises: Specific stretches can help relieve tension in the plantar fascia and improve flexibility. Your podiatrist can guide you through a tailored stretching programme.
– Footwear and Orthotics: Wearing supportive shoes with good arch support and cushioning can help. Custom orthotic insoles can also provide additional support and reduce strain on the plantar fascia.
– Exercises: A Podiatrist can work with you to strengthen the muscles around the foot and ankle, which can help reduce the stress on the plantar fascia.
– Medication: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be recommended to help reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
– Ice Therapy: Applying ice to the affected area can help reduce inflammation and numb the pain.

Specialist Care at RS Podiatry Clinic

At RS Podiatry Clinic, we understand that every case of plantar fasciitis is unique. That’s why we offer specialist treatments and in-depth consultations tailored to your individual needs. Our experienced podiatrists take the time to thoroughly assess your condition, understanding the underlying causes of your heel pain before recommending a personalised treatment plan. Most patients will have tried other treatments or advice only to realise it hasn’t helped them overcome their heel or arch pain.

One of the advanced treatment options we offer is laser therapy. This non-invasive treatment uses focused light energy to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the plantar fascia. Laser therapy is particularly beneficial for patients who have not found relief through conventional methods. It is a safe and effective way to target the affected area, speeding up recovery and reducing pain without the need for surgery.

In addition to laser therapy, we are experts in orthotic insoles and footwear advice. We provide custom and non-custom-made  orthotics designed to support your feet and alleviate the strain on the plantar fascia and improve your gait. We go beyond this and understand biomechanical elements that have contributed to your plantar fasciitis in the first place, carefully analysing your gait and foot structure to recommend the best footwear and orthotic solutions. This holistic approach helps ensure that you receive comprehensive care, addressing not only the symptoms but also the underlying causes of plantar fasciitis.

Advanced Treatment Options

If conservative treatments do not provide sufficient relief, we may discuss more advanced options:

– Corticosteroid Injections: These can provide temporary pain relief by reducing inflammation in the plantar fascia.
– Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT): This non-invasive treatment uses sound waves to stimulate healing in the plantar fascia.
– Laser Therapy: As part of our specialist care, RS Podiatry Clinic offers laser therapy, a cutting-edge treatment that helps to accelerate the healing process and provide long-lasting relief from plantar fasciitis.
– Surgery: In rare cases where other treatments have failed, surgical intervention may be considered to release the tension on the plantar fascia.

Prevention of Plantar Fasciitis

Preventing plantar fasciitis involves taking steps to reduce the risk factors associated with the condition:

– Maintain a Healthy Weight: Keeping your weight in a healthy range can reduce the pressure on your feet.
– Wear Supportive Footwear: Choose shoes that offer good arch support, cushioning, and fit well. Avoid wearing worn-out shoes or walking barefoot on hard surfaces.
– Incorporate Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: Regularly stretching your calves, Achilles tendon, and the plantar fascia can help maintain flexibility and reduce the risk of injury.
– Gradual Increase in Activity Levels: If you are starting a new exercise programme or increasing your activity levels, do so gradually to avoid overloading the plantar fascia.

When to Seek Help

If you are experiencing persistent heel pain or have noticed symptoms of plantar fasciitis, it is important to seek help from a podiatrist. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent the condition from worsening and ensure a quicker recovery.

RS Podiatry Clinic is dedicated to providing comprehensive care for plantar fasciitis and other foot conditions. Our team of experienced podiatrists will work with you to develop a personalised treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and helps you get back on your feet as soon as possible. With our in-depth consultations, advanced treatments like laser therapy, specialist orthotic solutions, and expert footwear advice, we offer you the best possible care for lasting relief.

For more information or to book an appointment, please contact our clinic today. Let us help you take the first step towards pain-free feet.