Physiotherapy For Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar Fasciitis is caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia which is a structure that connects your heel to your toes. It is reportedly the most common cause of pain in the heel and is estimated to account for 11-15% of all foot symptoms requiring physiotherapy care among adults. Plantar Fasciitis is slightly more common in females than males between the ages of 40 and 60 years. It is also estimated to account for 8% of all running injuries (Morrissey, et al, 2021).
Plantar Fasciitis often presents as an overuse injury due to repetitive strain but can also occur because of trauma. Other risk factors may include obesity, occupations that require prolonged standing, excessive pronation of the foot, reduced ankle dorsiflexion or heel spurs.
Patients who suffer from Plantar Fasciitis often complain of pain on the inside of their heel. Symptoms can be more noticeable on the initial steps after inactivity and after increased weight bearing activities, such as walking or running. Tightness of the posterior leg muscles (calfs and hamstrings) have also been found in patients with Plantar Fasciitis (Grieve and Palmer, 2017).
It is important to attend a physiotherapist for help with Plantar Fasciitis as it can get worse without appropriate intervention. Your physiotherapist will assess your gait, provide manual therapy techniques such as soft tissue release, joint mobilisation, stretching and exercises to increase the strength of the supporting muscles around the foot. They may also suggest a form of NSAID’s to help relieve pain, shoes with cushioned heels or suggest specific orthotics that can help to support the foot during activity.
It is important to note that symptoms may take several weeks or months to improve, depending on the nature of the injury. However, if you take the advice of your chartered physiotherapist, avoid aggravating factors and adhere to a tailored rehabilitation programme, the symptoms will improve much quicker. Approximately 90% of all Plantar Fasciitis cases are treated successfully with conservative physiotherapy management.
Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.
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