Physio for Foot Pain - Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar Fasciitis is a common foot injury which can cause pain under the sole of the foot and prevent you from participating in exercise or sport and even walking. But what actually is happening when you feel that burning pain on your foot and how can we help you treat it?

What is it?

The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue spanning from the heel to the base of the toes. It stabilises the arch of the foot during walking and acts as a shock absorber. Fasciitis is an irritation around the insertion at the heel leading to a thickening of the fascia.

Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of heel pain.

What causes it?

Plantar Fasciitis is usually caused by an overuse injury due to repetitive strain, this is why runners are often associated with this condition. Plantar fasciitis can be exacerbated by ankle instability and obesity due to constant, repetitive loading of the tissue. Older athletes also seem to suffer more frequently with it more often than younger ones. Muscle tightness around the lower limb and calf can also contribute.

Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis

·       Sharp pain around heel/base of foot.

·       Pain gradually comes on, usually no incident that causes it.

·       Pain on first few steps after getting out of bed.

·       Pain on long periods of standing or sitting.

How can I prevent it/treat it?

Initially you may need to rest or modify the amount of activity you do to allow for initial healing and a reduction in inflammation. Icing may also help reduce pain. Strengthening exercises for the plantar tissue, calf and ankle to increase stability of the area are essential. Stretching the muscles around the calf and the plantar fascia may also help but BE CAREFUL as stretching tissue that is damaged or torn can worsen the injury.

We recommend seeing one of our physiotherapists prior to starting any exercises with this highly sensitive injury.

How can physiotherapy help?

Our Physiotherapists can identify the reasons that caused the issue in the first place and treat the underlying cause as well as current symptoms.

Physio treatment has been shown to be effective at reducing pain and increasing function so you will get to return to exercise, walking and sport faster with physio.

Your physio will give you long-term strategies to reduce the chance of re-injury in the future.