What the HEEL is going on???
Do you ever experience pain on the bottom of your foot, around your heel or arch while walking or running? You may be experiencing Plantar fasciitis. Most of us who have experienced plantar fasciitis know first-hand how debilitating and frustrating it can be. Every morning resembles being forced to walk on glass and you quickly become annoyed and dissatisfied. The prevalence in the general population is estimated to range from 3.6% to 7% and may account for as much as 8% of all running-related injuries.
What is Plantar fasciitis? …. Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the fibrous tissue (plantar fascia) along the bottom of your foot that connects your heel bone to your toes. Plantar fasciitis can cause intense heel pain.
Ok so, I understand what it is but how did I get it? …. Well, it is not always clear why this happens. You may be more likely to get plantar fasciitis if you:
recently started exercising on hard surfaces
exercise with a tight calf or heel
overstretch the sole of your foot during exercise
recently started doing a lot more walking, running, or standing up
wear shoes with poor cushioning or support
are very overweight
While there isn’t just one specific cause of inflammation, it can be difficult to discern the exact cause as there are many reasons that can lead to it. The one thing that all these causes have in common is that they cause a lot of pressure on the plantar fascia tissue, leading to excess stretching or overuse.
My GP has told me I have Plantar fasciitis. What should I do next? …. Book in for a session at Physio K! As physiotherapists we can help you to manage your pain, symptoms and mitigate flare ups through a variety of different treatments. Treatment is always individualised to each client we see. We will carry out an assessment so that we can provide the most appropriate treatment based on your level of pain and what stage of rehab you are at.
What should I expect from physiotherapy for this? …. We will be able to help guide you through the rehabilitation process; help you understand signs of plantar fasciitis healing and get you back to doing what you love! Some of the treatments you can expect to receive, but are not exclusive to are:
Massage or soft tissue work
Home exercise programmes for stretching and strengthening
Advice and education
Dry Needling
What should I do while waiting to see my Physiotherapist? …. There are many home practices you can adopt to aid in your recovery from plantar fasciitis. It is always recommended to see a professional.
DO | DON’T |
Rest and raise your foot on a stool when you can | Do not take ibuprofen for the first 48 hours |
Put an ice pack (or bag of frozen peas) in a towel on the painful area for up to 20 minutes every 2 to 3 hours | Do not walk or stand for long periods |
Wear wide comfortable shoes with a low heel and soft sole | Do not wear high heels or tight pointy shoes |
Use soft insoles or heel pads in your shoes | Do not wear flip-flops or backless slippers |
Regular gentle stretching exercises | Do not walk barefoot on hard surfaces |
Exercises that do not put pressure on your feet, such as swimming | |
Take paracetamol | |
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