Patient Information Sheet

Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar Fasciitis
The plantar fascia is a type of connective tissue that provides an arch support for the feet. Plantar fasciitis is the common term given to pain arising from this structure from its attachment to the heel bone or calcaneus. It is thought that the main cause is excessive load which results in small micro-tears through the tissue. Pain occurs in the area when the bodys healing response cant keep up with the degeneration in the tissue. There is sometimes a bony heel spur that is present on x-ray but this is not the source of the pain. These bony spurs occur as a result of the traction of the soft tissue at its attachment to the heel bone and are common in people without symptoms. The reaction of the body to the stress is to lay down new bone.

Pain and Symptoms

There is pain under the heel which is often worse after walking or running which is typically worse with the first few steps taken in the morning.

Diagnosis
The diagnosis is usually made from the history and from clinical testing. Further investigations such as x-ray, MRI and ultrasound can be undertaken to confirm the diagnosis and to assess other structures.

Risk factors Low arches or flat feet. Feet which hypermobile. High arches or rigid feet. Excessive exercise Sudden increases in exercise amount High body weight are

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335 Hillsborough Rd, Warners Bay NSW 2282 T.(02) 4954 5330 | F.(02) 4954 5380 | E.info@advancedphysio.com.au | W.www.advancedphysio.com.au

Patient Information Sheet

Plantar Fasciitis

Treatment Options Include:

Orthotics - The aim of the orthotic is to help maintain the arch height and in so doing reduce traction on the attachment site of the plantar fascia and limit how much tractional force is being transmitted into the attachment site. Foot-Wear - The shoe needs to be both supportive and provide cushioning, particularly at the heel. This will also help increase the effectiveness of the orthotic. Stretching - This includes both stretching of the plantar fascia itself and also stretching of any tight lower limb muscles.

Taping - Taping of the foot will provide short term relief and will mimic the action of an orthotic by providing arch support. Night Splints - In severe cases the use of a night splint can help. The splint helps maintain the plantar fascia in a lengthened position and stops it from contracting over-night. This overnight contracture is one of the reasons why this condition is very painful when first walking on your feet in the morning.

Time frame for Recovery:

This condition can often take up to 6 months to fully resolve but will often improve quickly with treatment.

335 Hillsborough Rd, Warners Bay NSW 2282 T.(02) 4954 5330 | F.(02) 4954 5380 | E.info@advancedphysio.com.au | W.www.advancedphysio.com.au