Is heel pain making it difficult for you to work, exercise, or manage daily activities? You might be dealing with plantar fasciitis.
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue that stretches along the bottom of your foot, from the heel to the toes. It supports the arch of your foot and plays a vital role in comfortable movement. Plantar fasciitis occurs when this tissue becomes inflamed, often leading to severe heel pain.
The Adelaide Heel Pain Clinics near Kingswood regularly treat heel pain, with plantar fasciitis accounting for about 50 cases per day. Although common, it’s a condition that requires immediate attention. Research highlights that 50% of sufferers continue to feel pain after five years, and 45% still experience symptoms after ten. Early consultation with a podiatrist is essential to avoid long-term suffering.
Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis
The most common symptom of plantar fasciitis is heel pain, typically described as a sharp sensation on the bottom of the foot near the heel. Many patients report the pain being most intense in the morning, particularly when taking their first steps after resting overnight. Pain can also worsen after prolonged periods of sitting or standing. Other symptoms may include pain in the sole of the foot, limping, swelling, and tenderness.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis occurs when excessive pressure and strain on the plantar fascia lead to inflammation and irritation, resulting in heel pain. This inflammation can often be triggered by strenuous activities like running, dancing, or gymnastics, which place significant stress on the heel bone. Other risk factors include weight gain, ageing, pregnancy, spending extended periods on your feet, or having flat feet or high arches.
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Treatment of Plantar Fasciitis
We see countless cases of plantar fasciitis every day at Adelaide Heel Pain Clinics. Our team has the expertise and resources to address heel pain, no matter how severe or unique the situation. With a range of treatment options available, we’ll work with you to create a tailored plan that suits your specific condition.
Residents of North Adelaide, Eastwood, Parkside, Glenside, Frewville, Fullarton, Highgate, Myrtle Bank, Brompton, Prospect, Walkerville, Unley, St Peters, Norwood, Thebarton, Mile End, Glenunga and surrounding suburbs can rely on Adelaide Heel Pain Clinic for quality plantar fasciitis treatment.
Radial Shockwave Therapy
With no lasting side effects and no recovery time needed, radial shockwave therapy is a highly effective treatment choice. We regularly offer this therapy to assist patients dealing with different forms of heel pain.
Focal Shockwave Therapy
Focal shockwave therapy machines are rare in Australia, and our clinic proudly houses the only one in South Australia. This state-of-the-art treatment provides one of the most effective methods for relieving heel pain.
Dry Needling
When it comes to relieving muscle tightness, dry needling is a proven technique. By inserting small acupuncture needles into trigger points, we help reduce muscle pain and tension.
Orthotics
Custom orthotics provide personalised comfort and support for any type of shoe. Designed specifically for your foot, they offer a treatment option tailored to your unique needs.
Low-Level Cold Laser
Low-level cold laser therapy is a gentler alternative to hot lasers, offering a breakthrough solution in podiatry care. This treatment might be the right fit for your condition.
Exercise Rehabilitation
Get a treatment plan designed just for you—addressing your pain, supporting your health, and helping you reach your goals. A custom exercise rehabilitation plan with a podiatrist could bring excellent results.
Common Questions About Plantar Fasciitis – Answered
How are plantar fasciitis and heel spurs different?
Simply put, no. While plantar fasciitis and heel spurs are often confused due to their similar symptoms, they are distinct conditions. Plantar fasciitis involves inflammation of the ligament, whereas heel spurs are related to bone growth.
What type of shoes should I wear for plantar fasciitis relief?
There’s no single shoe design that works best for plantar fasciitis. The right choice depends on your daily routine and individual foot structure. A podiatrist can help recommend the most suitable option for you.
Is physical activity like walking or running recommended for plantar fasciitis?
To allow your plantar fascia to heal, it’s important to take a break from high-impact activities like running. However, staying active remains essential for overall health. Low-impact exercises such as swimming are great alternatives that won’t aggravate your heel pain.
Does genetics play a role in plantar fasciitis?
There is no genetic factor linked to the development of plantar fasciitis. It isn’t an inherited condition, and there’s no evidence suggesting a genetic connection.
What does plantar fasciitis feel like?
Plantar fasciitis pain is typically described as a sharp, stabbing sensation near the heel, affecting the bottom of the foot. It’s usually most severe with the first steps after getting up in the morning or following prolonged sitting or standing.
At what point should I seek professional care for plantar fasciitis?
It’s important not to ignore heel pain. If you’re experiencing any symptoms, seeing a podiatrist as soon as possible is the best course of action.
Are compression socks effective for plantar fasciitis?
Yes, compression socks offer support for the arches and ankles, improving alignment and limiting mobility, making them helpful for plantar fasciitis. For the best results, discuss your symptoms with a podiatrist for individualised care.
What causes increased plantar fasciitis pain after waking up?
When the plantar fascia stays still for long periods, it tends to shorten. This makes the first few steps after waking up or following extended sitting or standing particularly painful, as stretching it out again can cause discomfort.
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