As you prepare to return to physical activity after a winter hiatus, one common foot injury to be aware of is plantar heel pain, often referred to as plantar fasciitis. This condition can develop when the tissue on the bottom of your foot, called the plantar fascia, becomes irritated and inflamed, leading to sharp, stabbing pain in the heel.
How Does Plantar Heel Pain Occur?
Plantar heel pain typically arises from overuse or stress on the plantar fascia. When you’ve been less active during the winter, your foot’s muscles, tendons, and ligaments may weaken, making them more vulnerable to strain. Activities like running, jumping, or even walking long distances can put excessive pressure on the plantar fascia, especially if you increase your activity level too quickly. Other risk factors include:
Wearing unsupportive footwear.
Having flat feet or high arches.
Sudden weight gain.
Tight calf muscles or Achilles tendons.
The pain is usually most severe in the morning with your first steps or after long periods of inactivity. As you move, the fascia loosens, and the discomfort may decrease, only to return after prolonged standing or exercise.
Shockwave Therapy: A Leading Treatment Option
If you do develop plantar heel pain, there are several treatment options available, and one of the most effective is shockwave therapy.
Shockwave therapy (also known as extracorporeal shockwave therapy, or ESWT) is a non-invasive treatment that uses sound waves to promote healing in damaged tissues. Here’s how it works:
Stimulates blood flow: Shockwave therapy improves circulation to the injured area, which enhances the body’s natural healing process.
Breaks down scar tissue: Over time, the therapy can help reduce any scar tissue buildup in the plantar fascia, improving flexibility and reducing pain.
Promotes cell regeneration: The treatment encourages the repair of tissue at a cellular level, helping the plantar fascia recover more efficiently.
Shockwave therapy is typically performed once a week or fortnight for 3-5 sessions, depending on the severity of the condition. Each session lasts about 20 minutes, and while some patients experience mild discomfort during the procedure, there’s usually no need for anesthesia.
You can see Shockwave Therapy for Heel Pain in action on here our Instagram Reel!
Other Treatment Options
In addition to shockwave therapy, treatment for plantar heel pain may include:
Rest and activity modification: Temporarily reducing weight-bearing activities gives your foot time to heal.
Stretching exercises: Regular stretching of the calf muscles and Achilles tendon can relieve tension on the plantar fascia.
Footwear changes and orthotics: Wearing shoes with good arch support and cushioning, or using custom orthotics, can reduce stress on the plantar fascia.
Final Thoughts
As you ease back into your post-winter exercise routine, paying attention to foot health is crucial. Taking preventive steps, such as gradually increasing activity levels and wearing proper footwear, will reduce your risk of injury. If you do experience heel pain, early intervention with treatments like shockwave therapy can provide relief and help you get back to doing what you love.
Our Podiatrists in Thornbury are here to help you, any heel pain of concern after Winter should be assessed by a Professional. Book Online or Call Us on 9480 4935, we take great care in helping your heels recover.
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