What is it? 

The plantar fascia is a thick band of fibrous tissue which runs from the base of the heel and attaches onto the base of the toes. It plays an important role in normal foot biomechanics by providing support to the longitudinal medial arch (inside arch) and acts as a dynamic shock absorber during walking, running and jumping.

Plantar Fasciitis is an overuse condition of the plantar fascia which involves excessive stress of the connective tissue.  This results in a gradual onset of pain the plantar fascia. Pain primarily occurs through the heel but can also be felt through the arch of the foot.   A lot of people say it feels like walking on broken glass. Ouch!

Stage 1:  Pain is often felt at the beginning of weight bearing movements and first thing in the morning. The pain will often subside quickly as the tissue warms up.

Stage 2: Pain will be more intense and felt after exercise.  This will usually subside within 30 minutes

Stage 3:  Pain will become more intense and constant during exercise and weight bearing including walking.

Causes: 

• There are a number of causes and risk factors.  These include:
• Low arches or flat feet
• High arches
• Reduced ankle mobility
• Poor footwear
• Increased BMI
• Tightness of surrounding musculature including:  The Calf , hamstrings, gluteal muscles.
• Muscle imbalances
• Repetitive activities which put the plantar fascia under increased strain e.g. Running, dancing

Please book in now if you would relief from any of the above symptoms.