Are you experiencing pain radiating from the bottom of your foot’s heel? If so, you may be one of the thousands of individuals who have the unfortunate pleasure of experiencing Plantar Fasciitis. But what is plantar fasciitis, and is there anything you can do if you have it?

Plantar fasciitis is a painful condition caused by inflammation and tissue damage around the bands that connect your toes to your heel. This inflammation affects the plantar fascia, a dense and web-like ligament that aids in supporting the arch of your foot and aids you when walking.

As you can imagine, the plantar fascia undergoes a lot of stress on a daily basis, and all throughout your life. Because of this constant wear and tear, plantar fasciitis is one of the most common orthopedic complaints and has everyone looking for the top brands for people with plantar fasciitis foot problems.

The fascia acts as a biological shock absorber, providing cushioning and support, but constant pressure on the feet, especially for those in sports, athletics, or who work on their legs all day on hard surfaces (such as concrete floors) can put undue strain on the tissue.

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

According to Healthline, Plantar Fasciitis is generally caused by increased and/or repetitive pressure and strain on the ligaments without adequate time between to heal properly.

Those who are greater risk include:

  • Being overweight
  • Age
  • Those who work on their feet all-day
  • Women who are pregnant
  • Long-distance runners
  • Those with structural issues with their feet

Because inflammation involved with experiencing Plantar Fasciitis is often caused by increased pressure on the fascia, those who are obese are at a higher risk, as are those who experience sudden weight gain. For example, pregnant women often experience temporary bouts of the condition while pregnant, especially during the late stages of pregnancy when they are at peak weight.

Long-distance runners such as those who regularly participate in marathons, cross country running, and long-distance races are also more susceptible. Others at risk from overuse include individuals whose job requires they are on their feet all day, such as restaurant or factory workers.

Age can play a role in the risk of developing the condition. Generally, those men and women between the ages of 40-70 who remain highly active are at a much larger risk of experiencing symptoms.

Pre-existing conditions, such as structural problems with the integrity of the foot can also be a contributing factor. Issues such as very flat feet or extremely high arches can more easily lead to the development of plantar fasciitis. Other factors that can play a role include tight Achilles tendons or wearing shoes with poor arch support or soft soles.

How to Treat Plantar Fasciitis?

Treatment options when experiencing Plantar Fasciitis vary depending on the severity, but generally focus on reducing pain and inflammation. The team at Mainstreet Health Clinic Physiotherapy and Health Clinic has put together an outline of the most common types of treatment options below.

With the right treatment, Plantar Fasciitis generally remedies itself within a few months.

Rest: The first step to recovery is taking a load off. If at all possible, limit the time spent on your feet and/or walking. Avoid placing any excessive strain or weight on your foot, and limit physical activity to a minimum.

OTC Medication: Over the counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce inflammation and help with pain management.

Cold and Heat: Application of both hot and cold compresses as per your doctor’s or physiotherapists recommendations can soothe the area as well as reduce inflammation and speed up healing.

Physical Therapy: When rest and medication fall short, physical therapy represents a non-invasive and highly effective solution. Physiotherapy generally involves stretches and exercises to strengthen and heal the plantar fascia, and is sometimes combined with massage, ultrasonography and/or contrast baths to aid in long-term healing.

Steroidal Injections: Those with severe pain that is non-responsive to prescribed NSAIDs may be good candidates for steroidal injections to ease pain and bring down inflammation.

Shock Wave Therapy: This treatment works by applying soundwaves to the plantar fascia, stimulating blood flow to the area and aiding with the healing process while reducing pain.

Tenex Procedure: Utilizing an ultrasound, scar tissue in the area is removed through a small incision and over within a few short minutes. This procedure can result in recovery in as little as 10-14 days.

Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the plantar fascia off of the heel bone itself. Generally used as a last resort, this outpatient procedure may require the use of a boot or splint during the recovery period.

Suffering from Plantar Fasciitis or Foot Pain? – Get help now

At Mainstreet Health Physiotherapy and Health Clinic our talented team of physiotherapists and healthcare professionals routinely treats cases for those who are experiencing Plantar Fasciitis with the latest and most innovative techniques, helping patients get back on their literal feet a soon as possible.