Plantar Fasciitis

Definition

Plantar Fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain, due to inflammation of the plantar fascia. The plantar fascia ia a band of tissue connecting the heel to the toes.

Causes

Planta fasciitis is usually an overuse injury caused by repeated overstretching of the plantar fascia.
Occurs more in women than men.
More common in those aged over 40.
Those who spend long periods on their feet are more likely to develop plantar fasciitis.
Being overweight increases risk of plantar fasciitis.
Foot shape can effect likelihood of plantar fasciitis. Those with a flatter foot or excessively pronate are more at risk of plantar fasciitis.
Extensive running or walking will increase risk of symptoms.
Poor shoe support.
Tight Achilles tendon.
A change of training surface can also increase risk of plantar fasciitis.

Symptoms

Pain first thing in the morning which eases after a while as tissues warm up and stretch out.
Pain in the arch of the foot and heel.
Inflammation of the plantar fascia.

Treatment

Plantar fasciitis can be self limiting and will eventually go by itself. However you can help with the treatment process by:

Apply the PRICE principle
P= Protect by wearing good fitting and supportive footwear.
R= Rest as much as possible.
I= Ice will help reduce inflammation. Do Not apply ice directly to the skin. Use a tea towel or wrap to avoid skin burns.
C= Compression
E= Elevation. Wearing a raised heel of approx. 6-10mm may help by relieving a tight Achilles tendon.
If appropriate weight loss will also help with symptoms of plantar fasciitis if overweight by reducing strain on the tendons and joints.

When to see a Podiatrist

If symptoms do not resolve through self care then a Podiatrist can help: