Physiotherapist update: May 2019


Rina van der Merwe, Physiotherapist

PLANTAR FASCIITIS

Definition: 
Plantar = underside of foot / Fascia = band of connective tissue / -itis = inflammation of…


One of the most common causes of heel pain.  Inflammation of the thick band (fascia) that runs under your foot – from the heel bone to the toes.  The band acts like a shock absorbing bowstring, supporting the arch in your foot.  If tension is too great on the band, small tears can develop in the fascia.
Too much tension? – usually from running/walking too far, too much, but not always.  Can be age related or due to foot mechanics (too high or too low foot bridge) or even work related (long periods on feet).
Symptoms:
Usually a gradual onset of heel and foot pain over days, weeks or months.  Stabbing pain under foot (usually heel).  Worse first thing in the morning taking first few steps.  Painful after running – not usually during run.
Treatment options: 
*Rest.  (The quicker you identify this condition and rest, the shorter the rest period will be.)
*Physiotherapy can help alleviate pain, swelling. 
*Strapping to help support the foot arch while healing takes place. 
*Foot support e.g. insoles in shoes. 
*Stretching of shortened muscles e.g. calf and hamstring muscles.
* Cortisone injection or operation if indicated.
Left untreated?
Chronic heel and arch pain.  May develop a heel spur which is a calcium deposit causing a bony protrusion underneath the heel bone on the spot where the plantar fascia originates from.  This is a result of chronic irritation and pull from the fascia on the heel bone.