Plantar Fasciitis is an overuse condition.
The plantar fascia is a thick band that lies at the bottom of the foot that attaches from the heel bone to the toes. It supports the main arch of the foot and allows us to push off the ground when we walk, run, or jump.
When the loads placed on the plantar fascia are more than it can handle, it can lead to a condition known as plantar fasciitis. This overload causes structural changes to the collagen of the plantar fascia, which is what ultimately results in pain.
The main symptoms include:
- Pain under the foot typically around the heel area
- Ache or burning sensation
- Worsens over time especially without treatment
- Stiffness and pain worse in the morning and after other periods of inactivity
- Aggravated by prolonged standing/walking/running
The difficulty with plantar fasciitis is the long term nature of the condition. Once irritated it can take a long time to settle down. This is why it is so important not to ignore the early symptoms.
There are factors which can make someone more likely to develop plantar fasciitis. These include a sudden change in activity levels, calf weakness, poor walking or running technique, suboptimal arch/ foot position or poor footwear.Other health conditions like diabetes, obesity and rheumatoid arthritis also increase the likelihood of plantar fasciitis.
What can physiotherapy do to help?
Early management is all about controlling the amount of load on the plantar fascia.
Your physiotherapist can use a range of techniques to help.
Your physiotherapist may
1️⃣tape,
2️⃣massage or
3️⃣dry needle your plantar fascia or surrounding areas including your calf muscles.
4️⃣Often self-management strategies including stretches and strengthening exercises with be provided.
5️⃣Your physiotherapist can also help with optimizing your training volume, shoes or walking/running technique.
If you’re still struggling with feet pain from Plantar Fasciitis, and it’s affecting your daily activities – you don’t need to live like that anymore!
Book a consultation; our wonderful and friendly Physios can help you relieve your pain!
Personalised Treatment at Tweak Health Physio
Every client’s experience of chronic pain is unique. That is why we create personalised treatment plans designed around health conditions, lifestyle, and long-term goals. During each session, our team adjusts strategies to make sure your plan remains effective, realistic, and supportive of lasting results.
To learn more about Plantar Fasciitis, click Here to view latest articles at PubMed
