What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis (sometimes written plantarfasciitis) is a common diagnosis for complaints of foot pain. This condition is caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue on the bottom of each foot. It functions as a support for the arch of the foot as it connects the heel bone to each of the individual toes.
Signs and Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis
- Heel pain: Typically, pain is felt at the inside and bottom of the heel, where the plantar fascia attaches to the heel bone
- Warm up pain: Sharp, stabbing, or throbbing pain most severe with the first steps in the morning or after prolonged periods of rest
- Tenderness: Upon palpation/touch, tenderness and sensitivity are often found along this structure, especially near its attachment point at the heel. This tenderness may be localized or extend along the length of the fascia.
- Difficulty weightbearing: This condition can affect your function during walking, running, standing, and other activities that require putting weight onto the feet. This pain usually gets worse the longer these activities are maintained.
- Calf stiffness: Tightness or imbalance in the calf muscles can increase stress on the plantar fascia and predispose individuals to plantar fasciitis. Addressing calf muscle tightness is often an integral part of treatment to alleviate symptoms and prevent recurrence.
Physiotherapy Treatment for Plantar Fasciitis
Physiotherapy is one of the best treatments for plantar fasciitis, focusing on reducing pain, improving flexibility and strength, correcting biomechanical abnormalities, and promoting optimal foot function. Plantar fasciitis treatment includes a personalized treatment plan, including stretching exercises, taping, manual therapy techniques, orthotic interventions, and activity modification.
Additionally, PhysioNow is pleased to offer shockwave therapy for plantar fasciitis pain relief. Research has found it to be quite effective at treating plantar fasciitis. Using high-energy acoustic waves, it promotes a healing response in the tissue and can create improvements in symptoms in just a couple of sessions! Found at our Applewood clinic, shockwave therapy may be just what you need for your heel pain.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of plantar fasciitis or have concerns about foot pain, it’s important to consult with one of PhysioNow’s qualified physiotherapists for a thorough assessment and tailored treatment plan. Early intervention and appropriate management can facilitate a faster recovery and get you back to pain-free as quickly as possible.
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FAQs
How is plantar fasciitis diagnosed?
Plantar fasciitis is typically diagnosed based on your medical history, a physical examination, and sometimes imaging tests such as X-rays or ultrasound to rule out other possible causes of heel pain.
What are the treatment options for plantar fasciitis?
Treatment usually involves a combination of rest and activity modification, physical therapy, stretching and strengthening exercises, wearing supportive footwear, using orthotic devices or shoe inserts, addressing any biomechanical abnormalities and shockwave therapy.
How long does it take to recover from plantar fasciitis?
Recovery time varies depending on the severity of the condition and how well you respond to treatment. In some individuals, they may experience symptoms for a year or longer, especially if they leave it untreated. In many cases, plantar fasciitis improves with conservative treatments within a few months. In some cases, with shockwave therapy improvements can be seen after just a couple of sessions.
Can plantar fasciitis come back after treatment?
Yes, plantar fasciitis can come back, especially if the underlying factors that contributed to the condition are not addressed. It's important to continue with your exercises, wear supportive footwear, and maintain a healthy lifestyle to reduce the risk of recurrence.
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