Plantar Fasciitis is the inflammation of the part of your foot that connects the heel bone to the toes. It is one of the most common causes of heel pain. Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis is pain that occurs at the centre of your heel on the bottom of your foot but it can exist anywhere from there to the balls of the foot. The pain may be worse in the mornings when getting out of bed after limited use of the foot. It is most commonly caused by repetitive strain to the ligaments of the sole of the foot and can be a common occurrence, often caused by over exercising, high impact activities such as running, or too tight shoes with poor support. It can also be a result of small injuries that have occured over time, or if you’re spending a lot of time on your feet, for instance if you stand or are walking around a lot in your job. Plantar Fasciitis can cause sharp, stabbing pain at first and then gradually lessens as you move around more.
What can we do?
- Advise on orthotic devices if the pain is caused by biomechanical abnormalities, these devices can be made by your podiatrist to correct the underlying problem.
- Advise on strengthening and stretching exercises.
- Tape or strapping of the heel or ankle.
How to ease them
- Wear comfortable shoes.
- Rest regularly and minimise walking and exercise.
- Soft insoles and heel pads can be worn for more comfort.
- Massage your feet gently.
- Ice painful area.
- Exercises that do not put pressure on the feet, such as swimming.