Is Plantar Fasciitis Affecting You?
Does pain in the soles of your feet greet you when you wake up in the morning? Do your heels ache when you stand up after sitting down? If so, you may have a condition known as plantar fasciitis. This is a common cause of heel pain and it may have an impact on your life in unpleasant and unexpected ways. However, plantar fasciitis treatment is available.
Plantar Fasciitis Treatment May Be Beneficial
The plantar fascia, a robust tissue band beneath the foot, connects the heel bone to the toes. Our plantar fascia is constantly at work when we take steps, jog, run, or jump, acting as a flexible shock absorber by tightening during take-off. Plantar fasciitis is a prevalent condition that can result in pain in the heels or the underside of the foot. It occurs when the plantar fascia becomes irritated due to its role in supporting the foot’s arch and providing stability. Although plantar fasciitis is a common ailment, neglecting the pain it causes can lead to chronicity, complicating the treatment process. Therefore, it’s essential to address plantar fasciitis when you are experiencing any ongoing symptoms.
Understanding the Causes of Plantar Fasciitis
The development of plantar fasciitis is influenced by multiple factors. Typically, it tends to affect individuals who engage in regular running, jumping, or prolonged standing. Activities that exert pressure on the heel, such as ballet dancing and aerobic dancing, can also play a role.
Other possible causes of plantar fasciitis include:
- Ill-fitting footwear
- Weak stabilising muscles
- Uneven terrain
- Foot structure
- Overuse
- Ageing
- Obesity
Ready to jump into plantar fasciitis treatment?
Frequently Asked Questions About Plantar Fasciitis
Are there plantar fasciitis treatments I can do at home?
In some cases, you may be able to address the pain caused by your plantar fasciitis at home. Treatments that may assist include:
- Rest— Slowing down and moving less, while still remaining active to some degree, is important for recovery
- Ice— Putting ice on your heel (not directly, but through a washcloth or towel) for 20 minutes four times a day may help to relieve pain
- Massage— Massaging your foot before exercise, in conjunction with ice treatment, may assist
- Medication— Pain medication that you can purchase over the counter may help to relieve pain, but ensure to follow the instructions. If you have any other conditions and/or take any other medications, consult with your doctor before starting any new medication
- Changing footwear— Sometimes plantar fasciitis can be caused or exacerbated by wearing poorly fitting footwear. Try wearing shoes with good arch support, heel support, and general cushioning. You may wish to use padding or inserts to help with this
- Splints— Wearing splints at night help to keep your foot straight and may assist in reducing pain
What forms of plantar fasciitis treatments are there?
A variety of plantar fasciitis treatment options are at your disposal. Your podiatrist will evaluate your pain and determine if plantar fasciitis is a potential cause. Together, you will devise a personalised plantar fasciitis treatment plan that suits your needs. The specific treatment form(s) chosen will be influenced by factors such as the character of your pain, its duration, and its intensity.
Plantar fasciitis treatment options may include:
- Orthotics
- Splints
- Specific exercises
- Stretching
- Lifestyle changes
- Footwear assessment
- Footwear advice
- Dry needling
- Strapping and/or padding
- Weight loss
- Medication
- Anti-inflammatory injections
- Management of any underlying systemic conditions
Symptoms of plantar fasciitis
Some symptoms of plantar fasciitis include:
- Pain under the heel
- Pain on the sole of the foot
- Pain that begins first thing in the morning and eases throughout the day
- Pain that occurs when you stand up after sitting or lying down for a period of time
- Pain that gets worse again at the end of the day
- The feeling of a small pebble under the heel when you walk
Why Visit Doubleview Podiatry?
At Doubleview Podiatry, we regularly see patients with plantar fasciitis and enjoy providing care to get them back on their feet.
Experienced TeamOwner and principal podiatrist Stephen and his team have decades of clinical experience. |
Ideal LocationLocated mere steps away from Scarborough Beach, our clinic offers convenient access for those in the northern and western suburbs. |
Individualised TreatmentWe approach each patient as a unique individual and customise our treatments accordingly. |
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Discover The Doubleview Advantage
If you have aspirations of rediscovering your ability to run, skip, and jump as before, plantar fasciitis treatment could be the answer. Our experienced team and unwavering dedication to our craft may bring that day closer than you anticipate.
Reserve Your Podiatry Consultation in Wembley Downs Today
Disregarding plantar fasciitis may force you to alter your movements, potentially causing pain or issues in your knees, hips, back, and, of course, your feet. At Doubleview Podiatry, our experienced team is well-versed in various plantar fasciitis treatment methods, increasing your likelihood of returning to your regular activities sooner rather than later. To initiate your plantar fasciitis treatment journey, make an online appointment today.
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Areas We Serve
Our clinic is situated at 166 Brighton Road, Scarborough, Perth WA. To find us: Get Directions Here.
