Plantar fasciitis / plantar fasciopathy

Plantar fasciitis / plantar fasciopathy - a common cause of foot pain

What is plantar fasciitis?


Plantar fascia is a thick ligamentous structure at the sole of foot. It acts like a rubber band to absorb shock during weight-bearing activities and improve the efficiency with walk or running. Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar facia is overloaded and irritated. This can lead to swelling and weakening of the structure. Diagnosis of plantar fasciitis is based on the location and pattern of pain and is often supported by positive ultrasound scan findings.

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What are the symptoms of plantar fasciitis?


  • Pain at the heel/ arch of the foot
  • Stiffness and pain in the morning
  • Pain at the end of day
  • Pain with long duration of standing / walking

How is plantar fasciitis treated?


There is currently no consensus about the best treatment for plantar fasciitis. However, it has been shown by research that the use of taping is effective in providing short term pain relief while the use of orthoses and strengthening exercises may be useful in long term management of this condition.

Other treatment for plantar fasciitis includes soft tissue release, joint mobilisation, dry needling, gait retraining and lifestyle modification. To best manage this condition, the choice of treatment should be tailored to individuals based on assessment findings.


If you suffer from plantar fasciitis, you can consult one of our experienced Musculoskeletal Physiotherapists to help you to identify the cause of plantar fasciitis and develop an individualised management program to help with your pain.


REFERENCES:
-
Huffer D, Hing W, Newton R, Clair M. Strength training for plantar fasciitis and the intrinsic foot musculature: A systematic review. Phys Ther Sport. 2017 Mar;24:44-52.
- Lee SY, McKeon P, Hertel J. Does the use of orthoses improve self-reported pain and function measures in patients with plantar fasciitis? A meta-analysis. Phys Ther Sport. 2009 Feb;10(1):12-8.

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