Articles

How do you get on top of plantar fasciitis?

Plantar Fasciitis is a common pathology, occurring in 10% of the population with in a lifetime. 

It normally affects runners, or people with a high BMI. Although Plantar Fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain there are other pathologies that can replicate the symptoms, so it is important to get it assessed.

It can be caused by Baxter’s nerve irritation, fat pad atrophy and a referral of pain from the Achilles, just to name a few, so it is important to first understand the contributing factors and get a proper diagnosis!

In your assessment the physio will look at your strength, gait, ranges of movement, forces through your foot, assess your running programme and any recent changes or previous injuries, all of these factors can contribute!

Treatment: once we've made a diagnosis and done a thorough assessment, we will focus treatment on the individuals contributing factors. This may be a change in footwear, an orthotic (which may mean referral to a podiatrist) and most importantly for long lasting results the strength of the plantar fascia. 

If you have weakness in the tissues of the foot, and therefore poor ability to tolerate pressure and load, this will lend to you being more susceptible to plantar fasciitis. 

Start a loading programme: For long-term outcomes it is important to strengthen the plantar fascia we recommend using the Plantar Pad (www.plantarphysio.com). Exercising using this device is proven to be more effective than just insole treatment at 3 months and improves overall foot function and reduces pain more than stretches alone!

Disclosure, the Plantar Pad has been Ben's lock down project, getting the perfect shape and piece of equipment made to load the plantar fascia! It is being made in the UK and is now available in 50 clinics across the nation!