Heel pain can be a frustrating and persistent problem, impacting your ability to stay active and mobile. At Adelaide Heel Pain Clinic, we often see patients whose discomfort is caused by a condition known as plantar fasciitis. This common issue stems from inflammation in the plantar fascia—a thick band of tissue running along the bottom of your foot, connecting the heel bone to the toes.
What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia experiences repeated strain or overstretching, leading to tiny tears and irritation. Certain factors increase your risk, including:
- Overuse: Runners, walkers, or those with physically demanding jobs often develop
heel pain due to repetitive stress.
- Foot Structure: Flat feet, high arches, or abnormal walking patterns can disrupt how weight is distributed across the foot.
- Inappropriate Footwear: Shoes lacking proper arch support or cushioning may exacerbate stress on the plantar fascia.
Signs You May Have Plantar Fasciitis
The hallmark symptom of plantar fasciitis is sharp, stabbing heel pain, especially when:
- Taking your first steps in the morning.
- Standing after sitting for long periods.
- Walking or running for extended periods.
If left untreated, this condition can worsen, making daily activities increasingly difficult.
How Adelaide Heel Pain Clinic Can Help
At Adelaide Heel Pain Clinic, we specialise in diagnosing and treating plantar fasciitis using advanced technologies and personalised care. Our range of treatment options is designed to address your specific needs:
- Custom Orthotics: Using 3D printing technology, we create personalised insoles that provide optimal support and evenly distribute pressure across the foot.
- Shockwave Therapy: We offer both Shockwave Therapy and Focal Shockwave Therapy, non-invasive treatments that stimulate blood flow, accelerate healing, and reduce pain in the affected tissues.
- Lightforce and K-Laser: Our cutting-edge laser therapies help reduce inflammation and promote tissue healing, providing faster recovery.
- Dry Needling: This technique targets trigger points in the foot and calf muscles to relieve tension and pain, promoting faster healing.
- Prolotherapy: An injection therapy that stimulates healing in damaged tissues, helping to regenerate the plantar fascia and improve long-term recovery.
- Stretching Programmes: Tailored exercises are designed to improve flexibility, alleviate tension, and strengthen muscles around the plantar fascia.
- Taping and Strapping: These techniques provide temporary support, alleviating stress and strain on the plantar fascia to reduce pain.
- Footwear Advice: We guide you in choosing shoes with the right support to prevent further irritation and provide comfort throughout the day.
Preventing Plantar Fasciitis
Simple steps can help reduce your risk of developing or worsening plantar fasciitis:
- Wear shoes with proper arch support and cushioning.
- Maintain a healthy weight to minimise stress on your feet.
- Avoid walking barefoot on hard surfaces.
- Gradually increase the intensity of physical activities to avoid overloading the plantar fascia.
Don’t Let Heel Pain Hold You Back
If you’re struggling with persistent heel pain, don’t wait to seek professional advice. At Adelaide Heel Pain Clinic, we provide comprehensive assessments and personalised treatments to get you back on your feet pain-free.
Internal Link: Learn more about our heel pain treatment services.
Outbound Link: For more information about plantar fasciitis, visit the College of Podiatry.