Plantar Fasciitis
Treatment
We are your trusted source for expert care in managing plantar fasciitis.
Plantar Fasciitis is a common foot condition that causes pain in the heel and bottom of the foot and can even make the simplest activities daunting. It occurs when the thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot becomes inflamed or irritated. It is very common, and our dedicated team of podiatrists are here to help you understand the causes of plantar fasciitis, including overuse, improper footwear, and biomechanical issues.
Our clinic provides personalised treatment plans designed to alleviate pain and promote healing. Our comprehensive approach includes a range of treatment options including:
- Shockwave therapy is our go-to treatment for this condition as it sees the best results in almost all patients.
- Laser therapy works well in conjunction with shockwave therapy to promote healing at a cellular level, speeding up your recovery process
- Manual therapies such as soft tissue massage or mobilisation to reduce pain and promote healing.
- Load reduction on the heel through taping or shoe modifications.
- Custom orthotic devices or guidance on improved footwear to provide cushioning and arch support to offload the heel.
- Stretching exercises to improve flexibility and reduce tension in the plantar fascia.
- Rehabilitation exercises to strengthen the muscles of the foot and ankle.
- Anti-inflammatory medications or corticosteroid injections to reduce pain and inflammation (if required).
We focus on effective pain relief and restoring your mobility so you can get back to enjoying life.
Prevention is vital in managing plantar fasciitis, and we’re here to guide you. We emphasise the importance of proper footwear, weight management, and smart exercise routines to protect your feet from future strain.
What types of Orthotics do we provide?
Sports Orthotics
Sports orthotics are designed specifically for running, walking, or other sports. Sports orthotics are more durable with a softer, full-length top cover to provide additional comfort and cushioning and prevent blisters from occurring. These custom orthotics are suitable for shoes with a full-length removable inner sole, such as running shoes and football boots.
Slimthotics
These orthotics fit in narrow shoes that are usually lower profile. They provide the same level of correction but are worn in a wide variety of shoes. They are highly customisable and enable you to get a broader range of widths and colours to suit your shoe style.
Cycling Orthotics
Custom-designed orthotics that fit into cycling shoes whilst ensuring you maintain comfort and efficient power transfer through your pedals. These orthotics are cleverly designed from carbon fibre to provide a lightweight and durable orthotic that fixes your cycling foot pain.
FAQs
What is plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition characterised by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, connecting the heel bone to the toes. This condition often leads to heel pain and discomfort, especially with the first steps in the morning or after prolonged periods of sitting.
What are the symptoms of plantar fasciitis?
The primary symptom is a sharp, stabbing pain in the heel (occasionally described as a stone bruise type feeling), which is usually worse in the morning or after sitting for a long time. Other symptoms may include stiffness in the foot and pain that worsens after exercise or activity.
What causes plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis can be caused by several factors, including overuse, excessive weight, improper footwear, foot structure abnormalities (such as flat feet or high arches), and activities that put a lot of stress on the heel.
How can I treat plantar fasciitis at home?
Home treatments include resting the foot, applying ice to reduce inflammation, stretching exercises for the calf muscles and plantar fascia, using over-the-counter pain relievers, and wearing supportive footwear.
What exercises can help with plantar fasciitis?
Recommended exercises include calf stretches, toe stretches, and towel stretches. Strengthening exercises for the foot and ankle, like toe curls or marble pickups, can also be beneficial. Always ensure exercises are done gently to avoid exacerbating the pain.
How long does it take to recover from plantar fasciitis?
Recovery can vary depending on the severity of the condition and adherence to treatment. It typically takes a few months to heal, but some people may experience pain for longer. Consistent treatment and preventive measures can help speed up recovery.
Are there specific shoes recommended for plantar fasciitis?
Yes, shoes that provide good arch support, cushioning, and have a firm heel counter are recommended. Look for shoes designed specifically for walking or running that help distribute pressure evenly across the foot.
Can plantar fasciitis go away on its own?
In some cases, plantar fasciitis can improve on its own with rest and conservative measures. However, without proper management, it may persist or worsen, leading to chronic pain. Early intervention is advised for the best outcome.
What are the best non-surgical treatments for plantar fasciitis?
Effective non-surgical treatments include physical therapy, custom orthotics, corticosteroid injections, shockwave therapy and laser therapy. These therapies aim to reduce pain, promote healing, and improve foot function without the need for surgery.