By Ben Croxford
If you’ve ever woken up and felt a sharp pain in your heel when you take your first few steps, you might be dealing with plantar fasciitis.
This common condition can make everyday activities like walking and standing very painful.
Those who suffer from persistent plantar fasciitis will understand how frustrating and restrictive it can be.
“Plantar Fasciitis” is when the plantar fascia, a thick band of connective tissue that lives underneath your foot, becomes irritated and inflamed.
The plantar fascia’s job is to support the arch in your foot and work as a shock absorber during weightbearing activities.
Overloading or overstretching the plantar fascia, especially with repetition over time, can cause stress and tiny tears that lead to the symptoms developing.
There can be lots of contributing factors, such as poor footwear, the profile of your arch, too much walking/standing and other injuries to the area.
There is no singular treatment that exists as a “fix-all” for plantar fasciitis, but the good news is that there are lots of strategies and treatments that can make a big
difference.
These can include:
– Exercises to strengthen then muscles around the foot and ankle, which protect and support the plantar fascia
– The use or orthotic devices and appropriate footwear that aid the function of your arch
– Resting from the specific activities that are contributing to the problem
– Massage, stretching and other pain-relieving supports
A professional, like a physiotherapist, can create a tailored plan using a variety of these treatment techniques.
It can be slow to improve, so it is important to persist with the right management strategies.
However, it absolutely can improve and you certainly shouldn’t just put up with it!
Ben Croxford is a Physiotherapist and leads the team at Form and Practice Mt Evelyn, Olinda and Chirnside Park.
His writings explore his favourite health topics, challenge common myths and aim to empower you to take control of your own health.
Find out more at formandpractice.com.au
