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Plantar fasciitis

What is plantar fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis means inflammation of the strong band of tissue (like a ligament) that stretches from the heel to the middle foot. This tissue supports the arch of your foot and absorbs shock.

Plantar fasciitis diagram
Plantar fasciitis – location of pain

Plantar fasciitis is most often seen in middle-aged men and women, but can be found in all age groups and is diagnosed with the classic symptoms of pain well localized over the heel area of the bottom of the foot. Often the pain from plantar fasciitis is most severe when you first stand on your feet in the morning. Pain often subsides quite quickly, but then returns after prolonged standing or walking. Pain is often worsened by prolonged periods of standing, particularly if you wear unsupportive footwear.

Causes of plantar fasciitis

  • Poor foot posture
  • Being overweight
  • Long periods of standing
  • Poor cushioning or lack of arch support in footwear

Treatment

We offer a comprehensive orthopaedic assessment which will focus on the reason why the condition has developed. Treatment is usually aimed at controlling the short term effects of this condition and then looking wider to address the cause and ease long term symptoms. Contact us to book an orthopaedic assessment.