Understanding Plantar Fasciitis: Why Podiatry Might Be Your Best Solution

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Plantar fasciitis is a common yet debilitating condition that affects the feet, causing pain and discomfort in the heel and sole. If you’ve ever experienced that sharp pain with your first steps in the morning or after prolonged periods of standing or walking, you might be dealing with plantar fasciitis.

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis occurs when the thick band of tissue (the plantar fascia) that connects your heel bone to your toes becomes injured. This can happen due to a variety of reasons, including:
Overuse: Activities that put stress on your feet, such as running, dancing, or standing for long periods.
Foot Mechanics: Issues with foot mechanics like high arches or flat feet can put extra strain on the plantar fascia.
Age: Being between the ages of 40 and 60 increases your risk.

Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis

The hallmark symptom of plantar fasciitis is pain in the bottom of the heel. This pain is usually worse in the morning when you take your first steps, but it can also flare up after long periods of standing or sitting.
Other symptoms may include:
Stiffness: The foot may feel stiff and difficult to move.
Tenderness: The bottom of the foot may be tender to the touch.
Mild Swelling: Some people experience swelling in the heel area.

Why See a Podiatrist?

While many cases of plantar fasciitis can improve with rest, stretching, and over-the-counter treatments like orthotic inserts or heel pads, persistent or severe cases often require professional intervention. Podiatrists specialise in diagnosing and treating conditions related to the feet, including plantar fasciitis. Here’s why they can be your best ally:
1. Accurate Diagnosis: Podiatrists have the expertise to differentiate between plantar fasciitis and other conditions that mimic its symptoms, such as heel spurs or nerve entrapment. At Performance Podiatry we sometimes use ultrasound in clinic to guide our diagnosis and treatment.
2. Customised Treatment Plans: Podiatrists create a personalised treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and lifestyle. This may include a combination of stretching and strengthening exercises, physical therapy, orthotics, or in severe cases, cortisone injections.
3. Preventative Advice: Podiatrists not only treat the current symptoms but also provide guidance on preventing future flare-ups. They can recommend appropriate footwear, orthotics, and lifestyle modifications to reduce strain on the plantar fascia.
4. Advanced Interventions: In cases resistant to conservative treatments, Performance Podiatry podiatrists may use advanced therapies like radial shockwave therapy (RSWT or high power laser). We can also perform cortisone injections under ultrasound-guidance

What to Expect During Your Visit

During your initial visit to a Performance Podiatry podiatrist, they will:
Conduct a physical examination and history: They will examine your foot and ask about your symptoms and medical history.
Possibly order imaging tests: X-rays or MRI scans may be necessary to rule out fractures, tumours or other underlying issues.
Develop a treatment plan: Based on their assessment, they will recommend the most appropriate treatments for your condition.

Plantar fasciitis can be a frustrating condition, but with the right approach, relief is within reach. Seeing a podiatrist early in your treatment journey can significantly improve outcomes and help you get back on your feet faster and with less pain. Don’t let foot pain hold you back—consult a podiatrist today and take the first step towards recovery.
Remember, every step forward counts when it comes to your foot health!

Additional Resources:

Mayo Clinic: Plantar Fasciitis Treatment

Book an assessment with us: Book A Podiatrist Online

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