Putting Your Feet First
Have you ever started your day excited and ready to go, only to be met with pain as soon as your feet hit the ground? Perhaps you’ve experienced the discomfort of finishing a jog and feeling a sharp pain in your heels instead of the satisfaction of a good workout. Whether it’s one or both of these situations, it’s likely that you’re familiar with plantar fasciitis— even if you haven’t realised it.
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis, a condition affecting the ligament connecting the heel bone to the ball of the foot, is a common cause of foot pain and discomfort in the lower limbs. It often occurs due to factors such as abnormal stresses running through the foot, most commonly by excess pronation or flat feet. If you have plantar fasciitis, you may feel pain that hinders your ability to walk or stand comfortably.
Living with plantar fasciitis can be difficult, but it doesn’t have to greatly impact your daily activities. If you’re struggling with foot pain that hinders your mobility, seeking assistance from a podiatrist may offer solutions.
Plantar Fasciitis Symptoms
The symptoms of plantar fasciitis can vary from individual to individual, but they generally include:
- Tenderness on the heel or arch
- Pain first thing in the morning when getting out of bed
- Pain after being seated for a while and standing up
- Sharp shooting pain getting worse throughout the day
- Pain in the arch of the foot
- Pain that worsens with activity such as walking and running
- Pain that worsens when pressing on the affected area
Causes of Plantar Fasciitis
A tight plantar fascia is the primary cause of plantar fasciitis and may be triggered by:
- Muscle weakness
- Restricted joint range of motion
- Change of footwear or activity
- Foot posture treatment
Some other causes of plantar fasciitis include:
- Overpronation (where the foot rolls inward when walking or running)
- Flat feet
- High arches
- Performing repetitive activities such as walking, running, and dancing
- Tight calf muscles
- Tight Achilles tendon
- Improper footwear (lack of cushioning and/or improper arch support)
- Ageing
- Weight gain
Treatment for Plantar Fasciitis
Although plantar fasciitis can range from discomfort to intense pain, it is frequently treatable. Achieving recovery requires patience and dedication from both you and your podiatrist. If left untreated, plantar fasciitis may develop into a chronic condition, leading to complications such as chronic pain, heel spurs, and a decrease in overall quality of life.
At Talaria Podiatrist, we prioritise offering a wide range of treatment options near Heidelberg tailored to your specific needs. Whether you’re a student or a senior, our focus is on supporting you to move with minimal pain. We understand that every individual is different, and what works for one person may not be suitable for another. Our skilled podiatrists will develop a personalised management plan for you, which may involve shockwave therapy, strapping, footwear advice, stretching and strengthening exercises, orthotics, and needling. In severe cases of plantar fasciitis, surgery may be considered, although it is not a common solution.
Are you ready to enter a world of comfort and walk with confidence in Heidelberg?
Your Plantar Fasciitis Questions Answered
Who can get plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis can potentially develop in anyone, but certain factors can heighten the risk. Individuals who participate in activities that place excessive stress on the feet, such as athletes, runners, dancers, or those with occupations requiring prolonged standing or walking, are particularly susceptible. Other risk factors include having flat feet or high arches, tight calf muscles or Achilles tendon, being overweight, and wearing ill-fitting shoes. Although plantar fasciitis can manifest at any age, it is most prevalent in middle-aged individuals, typically between 40 and 60 years old.
How is plantar fasciitis diagnosed?
The diagnosis of plantar fasciitis generally involves reviewing your medical history and conducting a physical examination. In some instances, imaging tests may be recommended. If you have concerns about plantar fasciitis, the first step is to consult with a podiatrist, such as our dedicated team at Talaria Podiatrist, who will discuss your symptoms, perform a thorough foot examination, and assess your condition.
What makes plantar fasciitis worse?
Plantar fasciitis may be aggravated by various factors, including prolonged standing or walking, high-impact activities, wearing improper footwear, and having tight muscles in the lower limbs.
Why does plantar fasciitis hurt more in the morning?
During sleep, the plantar fascia undergoes contraction and tightening due to inactivity. When you wake up and the plantar fascia is suddenly stretched, it may become inflamed, causing pain during walking. If you experience this, performing stretching exercises in the morning may be useful.
How long does it take for plantar fasciitis treatment near Heidelberg to work?
The time required for treatment of plantar fasciitis varies depending on individual factors and the severity of the condition. Generally, the recovery process can range from several weeks to several months. It is vital to remain committed to your individualised treatment plan, as it is designed to guide you safely toward recovery.
Why Talaria Podiatrist is the Team for Your Feet
Dedicated Team
With our team of podiatrists, Heidelberg feet have been receiving exceptional care since 2017. Our professionals bring a vast amount of knowledge and experience in the realm of foot and nail care.
Welcoming Environment
Our commitment lies in cultivating a welcoming and friendly setting, where we approach each person with a personalised and personable approach.
Local Care
Situated in Thornbury, our clinic is well-positioned to offer care to individuals in the nearby communities as well, such as Heidelberg.
Get That Spring Back in Your Step
By reaching out to us, you’re unlocking a future where foot pain no longer needs to hinder your progress. We’ll collaborate with you to tackle your concerns and aim to discover the treatment option that suits you most, assisting you in attaining optimal results. Whether your aim is to enjoy leisurely strolls, play basketball, or contribute to your team’s score, we’re dedicated to supporting your journey.
Let Us Care for You, Every Step of the Way
Dedicated to providing outstanding foot care and treatment for various conditions near Heidelberg, including plantar fasciitis, our team of experienced podiatrists is here to assist you. Whether you’re facing persistent foot pain or in need of preventive care, Talaria Podiatrist is your trusted partner. Count on our practical, modern facilities, and warm, personalised approach to deliver tailored solutions to meet your individual needs. Don’t let foot pain restrict you any longer—get in touch with Talaria Podiatrist today and start your journey towards healthier and happier feet.