Is persistent heel pain interfering with your daily routine, exercise, or work? Plantar fasciitis might be the reason.
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Running from the heel to the toes, the plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue that supports the arch of your foot and enables proper function. When this tissue becomes inflamed, it leads to plantar fasciitis—a condition that can cause significant heel pain.
Heel pain is the leading injury we treat at the Adelaide Heel Pain Clinics near Toorak Gardens, where we typically see around 50 cases of plantar fasciitis daily. Despite being a common condition, it’s a serious issue that demands swift treatment. Studies show that 50% of sufferers continue to experience pain after five years, and over 45% still struggle after ten years. Seeking podiatric care early can help prevent prolonged discomfort.
Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is commonly marked by sharp heel pain that typically occurs on the bottom of the foot near the heel. This pain often worsens after long periods of rest, like sleeping or sitting for extended durations. Other signs can include swelling, tenderness, limping, and pain spreading across the sole of the foot.
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.
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
Offering no long-term side effects and requiring zero recovery time, radial shockwave therapy is a reliable treatment for heel pain. We commonly use this therapy to help patients manage different types of heel pain effectively.
Focal Shockwave Therapy
There are only a few focal shockwave therapy machines available across the country, with the only one in South Australia located at our clinic. This cutting-edge technology offers one of the most advanced solutions for treating 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?
No, they’re not the same. Although they share similar symptoms, plantar fasciitis is caused by inflammation of the ligament, while heel spurs are bony growths that develop on the heel bone.
What are the most supportive shoes for plantar fasciitis?
The best shoes for plantar fasciitis should support your daily activities and address your unique foot needs. A podiatrist can guide you in selecting the perfect pair to ease discomfort and support your lifestyle.
Can I continue walking or running if I have 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.
Can plantar fasciitis run in families?
Plantar fasciitis doesn’t have a genetic basis. You won’t inherit it from your parents, as there’s no proven link between genetics and this condition.
How can I tell if I have plantar fasciitis?
Patients with plantar fasciitis often describe the pain as a sharp, stabbing sensation near the bottom of the foot, especially close to the heel. The discomfort usually worsens after periods of rest, such as upon waking or after sitting for an extended time.
At what point should I seek professional care 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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