Plantar Heel Pain (Plantar Fasciitis)
What is it?
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The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue that runs underneath each foot. It stretches from the back of the heel out towards the toes.
- Plantar fascia pain occurs in both athletic and non-athletic populations and although it is seen in all ages, there are several risk factors which contribute to plantar heel pain:
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Limited ankle movement.
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Being overweight.
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Running and work-related weight bearing activities.
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Long distance walking.
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Repeatedly getting in/out of vehicles.
Typical Symptoms/features:
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Pain on the bottom of the foot, often worse at the heel.
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Pain with weight-bearing e.g. standing and walking.
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Usually it is worst first thing in the morning and improves with movement.
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Pain that is worse after a period of inactivity.
Management:
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Activity modification
- Heel cups or orthotics.
- Pain relief.
- Weight loss if overweight or obese. (Please visit https://feelgoodsuffolk.co.uk/healthy-weight/ to make a Self-Referral if you would like help with weight management in Suffolk).
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Physiotherapy including range of movement exercises and a graded strengthening programme.
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In cases with severe and/or prolonged symptoms, other options such as shockwave therapy may need to be explored in addition to physiotherapy.
Do I need imaging?
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Imaging (X-rays or scans) is rarely required to diagnose plantar heel pain.
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X-rays and scans are most appropriately used after a serious injury.
