Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common orthopedic conditions relating to the foot. It is when the thick tissue on the bottom of the foot (the plantar fascia) becomes inflamed and irritated, making it difficult to walk. This is most often the result of repeated episodes of minor but recurring injury, such as with frequent running or long periods of standing. The pain can be located in the heel area of the foot or in the arch. It is often worse in the morning due to stiffness of the tissue, although it is not uncommon to increase the pain after long periods of walking. The pain often decreases with rest.

Diagnosis

Here at First Step Clinic our podiatrist will exam your foot for swelling, redness and tenderness of the area to confirm your diagnosis of Plantar Faciitis.

Treatment

Initial treatment usually involves heel stretching exercises and/or shoe inserts. Anti-inflammatory medications may also be perscriped by your GP.,which are readily obtainable from your chemist. Treatment can span several months, however in some cases may last for up to one year before symptoms improve. Here at First Step Clinic a majority of patients have found an improvement within a couple of months. Treatment such as insoles, orthotics and arch supports, created in our workshop, which are specifically designed for the plantar fascia, have in most cases been benificial.

Without Treatment

Foot pain can continue, and progress into a severe condition that affects the ability to walk. Eventually, permanent damage to the plantar fascia or surrounding nerves may occur