What is Plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is a common foot problem which usually causes heel pain or pain along instep of foot. It usually starts as a dull intermittent pain that is worse in the mornings then progresses to a stronger pain which may last all day. The plantar fascia is a thick fibrous that attaches from the heel bone underneath the foot to tho toes. It supports the arch of the foot.
Predisposing factors;
- flat feet [overpronated]
-high arched feet[ over supinated]
-inappropriate footwear
-running on toes/ uphill running
-increasing age
TREATMENT
Rest- minimise weight bearing activities such as running-try swimming instead.
Ice-use a frozen bottle of water to roll under arch of foot.
Physiotherapy may involve electrotherapy [ultrasound/ interferential therapy ]and ice ,to reduce pain and swelling. Biomechanical analysis will be undertaken as part of the assessment to determine cause of the problem. Often, tight hamstrings and calves can be a contributing factor, as can structural foot abnormalities. Prescription orthoses/ heel wedges and or raises will help take pressure off the painful fascia and help minimize the chance of recurrence.Exercises to strengthen the intrinsic foot muscles and stretch any muscles that are tight will be prescribed as appropriate.