Medical Conditions

Plantar Fasciitis

Severity for this condition can vary.

What is Plantar Fasciitis:

Plantar Fasciitis is a common condition which causes heel and arch pain in the feet. The Plantar fascia is a thick weblike ligament that connects the rear foot to the forefoot. It acts as a shock absorber and provides support to the foot arch when walking. Too much pressure on your feet or biomechanical foot anomalies can damage or tear the ligaments under the foot. The insertion point of the plantar fascia under the heel can become inflamed and this inflammation can lead to pain and stiffness in the foot.

The main symptoms usually associated with plantar fasciitis are pain under the heel and sometimes along the arch of the foot. It most commonly affects one foot however, both feet can be affected. Unfortunately, plantar fasciitis is a condition which can return multiple times. Pain is usually worse first thing in the morning or following periods of rest or inactivity, the pain will gradually reduce when moving and active.

Risk Factors:

  • Biomechanical foot problems can cause plantar fasciitis as a high arched or flat footed posture can put increased strain on the ligaments of the foot. This can then results in increased strain at the heel insertion point leading to inflammation.
  • Obesity can lead to increased pressure along the plantar ligaments resulting in tears of damage to the ligaments in the feet.
  • High activities levels such as long distance running of working in an occupation with prolonged periods on your feet can lead to increased demand on the plantar fascia and increased pressure under the heel.

For more information on the orthotic options for Plantar Fasciitis check out our blog HERE

If you have any questions please contact a member of the team using our online enquiries form or by emailing enquires@totalbodyorthotics.com

Recovery Time
Can Vary
Treatment
Can Vary
 

Symptoms can include:

  • Pain which is much worse when you start walking after sleeping or resting
  • Pain that feels better during exercise but returns after resting
  • Difficulties raising your toes off the floor
  • Pain under the heel and along the arch

It most commonly affects one foot however, both feet can be affected.

  • Rest and raise your foot where possible
  • Place an ice pack in a towel on the painful area for up to 20 minutes every 2 to 3 hours
  • Wear wide comfortable shoes with a low heel and soft sole
  • For mild symptoms the use of soft insoles or heel pads can help in your shoes
  • Biomechanical insoles with arch lifts and wedges to improve foot alignment and reduce foot stress,
  • Regular gentle stretching exercises, including night splints for maintained stretches.
  • Participate in exercises that do not put pressure on your feet, such as swimming

Things to avoid:

  • Walking or standing for prolonged periods
  • Avoid high heels or tight pointy shoes
  • Avoid flip-flops or backless slippers
  • Where possible try not to walk barefoot on hard surfaces

Products for Plantar Fasciitis