Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the connective tissue that supports the arch of your foot. It is one of the most common orthopedic complaints and is experienced as pain at the medial part of the heel on weight bearing activities. Sometimes people have pain at the bottom of the mid foot area too and very often it gradually worsens over time. The pain is usually worse upon taking the first few steps after sitting or resting for a long period of time, especially in the morning.

The plantar fascia is comprised of three bands of dense connective tissue that originate at the back of the heel, called the calcaneus. The primary goal of the calcaneus is to provide support along the medial longitudinal arch. Basically it acts as the shock absorber for the arches of the feet and transmits the force between the heel and forefoot during the late toe-off phase of the gait.

Components that contribute to plantar fasciitis are the height of the arch, tightness of the calf and the state of the Achilles tendon. First line treatments include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, focused stretching, footwear modifications and over the counter orthotics.

Osteopaths and Physiotherapists can treat the tight Achilles tendon, ankle mobility restrictions, calf tightness and pain, as well as correct the placement of the tibia and fibula. Adjustments to these structures affect the crucial toe-off phase of the gait. We are also trained in stretching the plantar fascia and can teach our clients focused stretching of the Achilles tendon, plantar fascia and the muscles of the feet, so they can accelerate recovery time. We can help get you back on your feet as quickly as possible and feeling pain free!

Contact the Body Group to book an appointment for an assessment and treatment for Plantar Fasciitis.