Plantar Faciitis

What are the causes for plantar fasciitis?

• Prolonged periods of standing or increased training
• Foot abnormalities such as flat feet or over pronation
• Increased body weight
• Tightness in the calf muscles

What are the signs and symptoms?

• Heel pain which is typically worse first thing in the morning, often called ‘first step’ pain
• ‘First step’ pain usually eases after walking a few steps
• Heel pain also increases with prolonged periods of standing, walking or getting up after periods of rest

How do I manage this problem?

• Shoes: Wear comfortable shoes with soft soles and good arch support
• Rest: try to take adequate breaks inbetween walking or periods of standing
• Activity modification is key and you may be given advice from your physiotherapist or podiatrist
• Weight loss is a key factor in controlling heel pain
• Localised massage followed by an ice pack can help settle mild symptoms
• Heel pads: Most chemist shops supply soft gel insoles or heel pads which help to ease pressure around the heel
• Exercises: Calf muscle and foot stretching exercises are usually helpful (please see attached exercise sheet)

What other treatments are available?

• Physiotherapy: Your physiotherapist may use various manual therapy techniques, acupuncture, taping, night splinting and specific exercises to relieve the symptoms and prevent recurrence 
• Podiatry: Your podiatrist may assess your foot biomechanics (the way your foot joints move) and advise on the right orthotic supports for your foot
• Corticosteroid injection: Your specialist physiotherapist or doctor may inject your plantar fascia to relieve pain
• Surgery: is rarely considered for but if symptoms persist over 12 months an orthopaedic opinion may be recommended.