Plantar Fasciitis

The plantar fascia functions as a shock absorber and supports the arch of your foot. Excessive pressure over the fascia may strain and tear the tissue causing heel pain. Extended weight bearing, a sudden increase in activity and unsupportive footwear contribute to plantar fasciitis.

Your Podiatrist will examine your foot and will check for the signs of flat feet or high arches, tenderness, swelling, redness and stiffness or tightness of your foot arch. Your Podiatrist may suggest an X-ray or MRI scan to rule out other causes of heel pain such as a stress fracture or nerve impingement.

Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy: During this procedure, high frequency air pressure waves are targeted on to the painful area to stimulate the healing process.

Supportive Shoes and Orthotics: Your Podiatrist may recommend shoes with good support and cushioning. Custom orthotics may also be helpful at supporting the fascia and providing shock absorption.

Physical Therapy: Your Podiatrist may design an exercise program that focuses on stretching your plantar fascia and Achilles tendon, and strengthening the muscles of the lower leg. In addition to exercises, application of athletic taping to support the bottom of your foot may also help relieve symptoms.

Rest: Decrease or avoid the activities that worsen the pain.

Ice: Apply an ice pack over the painful area at least twice a day for 10 to 15 minutes, for the first few days.

Medications: Your Podiatrist may suggest non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce your pain and inflammation. Your GP may also prescribe stronger pain relief.

Surgery: Occasionally, surgery to release the tight plantar fascia may be needed if conservative measures don’t help.