heel pain - Elite Foot Care

Heel Pain or Plantar Fasciitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the plantar fascia – a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of the foot, connecting the heel bone to the toes.

Causes of Plantar Fasciitis

Repetitive Strain: Regularly participating in activities that put stress on the heel, like long-distance running.
Foot Structure: Having a high arch, flat feet, or an abnormal walking pattern.
Age: More common in people between the ages of 40 and 60.
Weight: Extra weight can put more pressure on the plantar fascia.

Symptoms

Sharp pain at the base of the heel.
Pain that’s worse in the morning or after prolonged sitting.
Increased pain after exercise (not during).

Treatment Options

1. Custom Orthotics

Custom orthotics can provide the necessary support and alignment for the feet. Find out more about how custom orthotics can help.

2. Shockwave Therapy

A non-invasive treatment that can stimulate healing. Learn more about shockwave therapy at Elite Foot Care.

3. Foot Mobilisation

This therapy involves manipulating the foot to ensure all bones and joints are aligned and moving correctly. Discover the benefits of foot mobilisation.

4. Biomechanical Analysis

A deeper look into one’s gait and foot structure can provide insights into underlying issues. Read about our biomechanical analysis service.

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Conclusion

Plantar fasciitis can be a painful condition, but with the right care and treatment, you can find relief. We offer a range of services to help address heel pain and other foot-related issues. If you’re experiencing symptoms, don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation by booking online or calling us on 5328 3588.

1. Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis or plantar fasciopathy is the most common cause of heel pain. It is caused by degeneration of the plantar fascia, a band of tissue that runs from the heel to the toes. Plantar fasciitis is typically caused by overuse and can be exacerbated by standing for long periods of time or running on hard surfaces. The pain is usually felt in the bottom of the heel and can be quite severe.

Treatment: Stretching and strengthening exercises can help alleviate the pain of plantar fasciitis. Custom orthotics or shoes with good arch support can also help. Radial shockwave therapy is often used to increase blood supply to the affected area and repair damaged tissue.

2. Heel Spurs

Heel spurs are bony growths that form on the heel bone. They are usually caused by long-term strain on the muscles and ligaments in the foot. The pain is typically felt at the bottom of the heel and can be quite sharp.

Treatment: Heel spurs are typically treated with offloading – taking all pressure away from the effected area. Orthotic inserts or shoes with good arch support can also help. In some cases, surgery may be necessary.

3. Achilles Tendinopathy

Achilles tendinopathy is caused by degenerative changes of the Achilles tendon, which runs from the calf muscles to the heel bone. It is typically caused by overuse and can be exacerbated by running on hard surfaces or wearing shoes with poor support.

Treatment: Strengthening is key in Achilles tendinopathy – ensuring the tendon is strong and capable of handling all day to day requirements. Shockwave therapy is used to regenerate the tendon. In some cases, custom foot orthotics can be utilised to reduce the load going through the Achilles tendon. Wearing shoes with good arch support can also help.

4. Bursitis

Bursitis is caused by inflammation of the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that cushions the joints. It can be caused by overuse or injury and is typically felt as a sharp pain in the heel.

Treatment: Custom foot orthotics and shockwave therapy can help alleviate the pain of bursitis. In some cases, steroid injections may be necessary.

5. Stress Fractures

Stress fractures are small cracks in the bones of the foot, typically caused by overuse. They are typically felt as a dull ache in the heel.

Treatment: Rest is the best treatment for stress fractures. In some cases, a cast or walking boot may be necessary.

Conclusion

In conclusion, heel pain can be caused by a variety of factors, and it’s important to determine the cause in order to receive the proper treatment. Strength and stretching exercises as well as wearing shoes with good arch support can also help prevent future problems. If your heel pain persists or is severe, it’s important to see a podiatrist for an evaluation.

If you’re experiencing heel pain, don’t wait any longer to seek treatment. Visit our website at www.elitefootcare.com.au to make a booking or call us on 5328 3588 to schedule an appointment with one of our podiatrists. Don’t let heel pain keep you from enjoying your daily activities – let Elite Foot Care Podiatry help you get back on your feet.