The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue that stretches from the heel bone (calcaneus) to the bottom of the toes which contributes to the supporting arch of the foot.
Causes: Plantar fasciitis commonly occurs in sports and leisure activities that involves prolonged walking or running. Such activity exerts reoccurring stress to the underside of the foot within the plantar fascia as the foot flattens off (pronates) between heel strike and toe-off during the gait cycle. This exerts pressure on the heel end of the plantar fascia. Such pressure contributes to pain and inflammation. Biomechanical and footwear implications can also contribute to the condition.
Symptoms & Diagnosis: Plantar fasciitis causes pain and associated inflammation on the underside of the heel. The majority of cases produces more local pain along the medial aspect of the foot. Pain is often felt during prolonged walking, running and various sports. The condition is often reported as being problematic initially first thing in the morning on weight bearing but can then cause further discomfort throughout the day.
Management: Early diagnosis and treatment by a skilled physiotherapist is recommended to assist in the management of the problem. A biomechanical assessment may be indicated to assist with both the short and long term management of the condition. If the problem is left untreated, a bony spur may development which may require subsequent surgical intervention.
Please feel free to contact the G4 Clinic to speak to a member of the team for any questions that you may have.