Struggling with heel pain that’s affecting your ability to work, exercise, or go about your day? Plantar fasciitis could be the underlying cause.
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
The plantar fascia is a crucial band of tissue running along the sole of your foot, connecting the heel to the toes and forming the arch. When inflamed, a condition known as plantar fasciitis can develop, often resulting in intense heel pain.
The Adelaide Heel Pain Clinics near St Peters 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
Heel pain is the primary symptom of plantar fasciitis, often felt as a sharp, stabbing pain near the bottom of the heel. Patients frequently notice that the pain is worst in the morning when they first get out of bed or after extended periods of inactivity. Additional symptoms may include soreness in the foot’s sole, swelling, limping, and tenderness to the touch.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis
Excessive pressure on the plantar fascia can result in irritation and inflammation, causing heel pain associated with plantar fasciitis. Strenuous activities that involve repetitive impact, such as running, dancing, or gymnastics, often contribute to the problem. Other factors that raise the risk include weight gain, ageing, pregnancy, long periods of standing, and foot structures like flat feet or high arches.
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Treatment of Plantar Fasciitis
At Adelaide Heel Pain Clinics, we treat dozens of plantar fasciitis cases every day. Our experience and resources allow us to help patients manage heel pain effectively, regardless of its severity or unique circumstances. With a wide range of treatment options available in-clinic, we’re confident we can create a personalised plan tailored to your needs.
Adelaide Heel Pain Clinic delivers trusted plantar fasciitis treatment to residents across North Adelaide, Eastwood, Parkside, Glenside, Frewville, Fullarton, Highgate, Myrtle Bank, Brompton, Prospect, Walkerville, Unley, St Peters, Norwood, Thebarton, Mile End, Glenunga and surrounding suburbs.
Radial Shockwave Therapy
Radial shockwave therapy offers a powerful solution for heel pain, requiring no recovery time and posing no long-term side effects. We provide this treatment regularly for patients experiencing various types of heel pain.
Focal Shockwave Therapy
Our clinic houses South Australia’s only focal shockwave therapy machine, one of just a few available in the country. This advanced treatment offers a cutting-edge approach to relieving heel pain.
Dry Needling
One of the most effective methods for relieving tight muscles is dry needling. This technique uses fine acupuncture needles to release trigger points and reduce muscle pain.
Orthotics
Experience personalised comfort with custom orthotics, designed to support your feet in any shoe. Each pair is customised to address your unique foot shape and individual 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
Why not opt for a treatment plan tailored specifically to your pain, health, and goals? Collaborating with a podiatrist on a personalised exercise rehabilitation plan can offer significant benefits.
Everything You Need to Know About Plantar Fasciitis
Are plantar fasciitis and heel spurs the same thing?
No, they are different conditions. Plantar fasciitis refers to ligament inflammation, while heel spurs are bony projections on the heel, even though their symptoms can be similar.
Which shoes help relieve plantar fasciitis pain?
The best shoes for plantar fasciitis depend on your daily activities and specific foot requirements. There’s no universal solution, so it’s important to work with a podiatrist to find the right support for your needs.
Should I avoid walking or running with plantar fasciitis?
To give your plantar fascia time to heal, avoid high-strain exercises like running. Maintaining your fitness is still important, so consider switching to low-impact activities like swimming, which won’t exacerbate 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.
How does plantar fasciitis pain feel?
Most people with plantar fasciitis report a sharp, stabbing pain around the heel area at the bottom of the foot. The pain tends to be at its worst when taking the first steps after waking up or after sitting or standing for long durations.
How do I know if I need a podiatrist for plantar fasciitis?
Don’t wait to address heel pain. If you’re feeling any discomfort, visiting a podiatrist early can help prevent the condition from worsening.
Do compression socks help manage plantar fasciitis symptoms?
Yes, compression socks can be beneficial for plantar fasciitis. They provide support for the arches and ankles, helping to limit mobility and improve alignment. For personalised advice on managing your pain, it’s best to consult with a podiatrist.
Why is heel pain from plantar fasciitis worse when I wake up?
When you’re inactive for extended periods, your plantar fascia shortens. This causes pain when you first start moving again, making the initial steps in the morning or after sitting particularly uncomfortable.
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