If you’ve been asking yourself, “What is plantar fasciitis?” we’re about to explain everything you need to know about it.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the plantar fascia. This is a piece of tissue which runs along the underside of your foot.
It connects the toes to the heel bone and runs along the arch of the foot.
It’s a common foot problem that our podiatrists in Sydney see often and are experienced in treating.
Symptoms Of Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is often mistaken for heel spurs. It causes pain on the sole of your foot, and has been described by sufferers as a stabbing pain in the bottom of their feet.
Symptoms of plantar fasciitis can include:
- Sharp pain in your foot
- Significant pain when you first get up in the morning
- Foot pain after exercise
- Foot pain after standing or sitting for long periods
Common Causes Of Plantar Fasciitis
There are a few things that can cause plantar fasciitis. These include:
- Being on your feet for long periods
- Being overweight
- Pregnancy
- Unsupportive shoes
- Flat feet
- High arches
- Sports that are tough on your feet like running, football, soccer, aerobics, and other high-intensity workouts
Sometimes they are things you can change easily or work on over time, and other times it might be conditions you’re unable to change and just need to manage as best you can.
Speak to your podiatrist about the kind of changes you can make to improve your foot health and help to heal your foot.
Treatment For Plantar Fasciitis
So how do you treat plantar fasciitis?
In most cases, it will resolve on its own.
Rest is often prescribed by your podiatrist and over the counter pain medication and anti-inflammatories can help with the swelling and make the pain more manageable.
Your podiatrist might also recommend specific foot exercises that could help with your condition – this may vary from person to person, however, we’ve written a list of plantar fasciitis stretches and exercises that is worth a read if you’re suffering from this common type of foot pain.
If you’re struggling with foot pain, heel pain or other foot problems, don’t suffer in silence.
Book an appointment with our friendly podiatrists in Sydney who can diagnose and treat your foot conditions.
