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 is a condition that affects the ligament connecting the heel bone to the ball of the foot, leading to foot pain and discomfort in the lower extremities. It is frequently caused by factors such as abnormal foot stresses, with excess pronation or flat feet being the most common culprits. If you are suffering from plantar fasciitis, you may encounter pain that restricts your ability to walk or stand comfortably.
Coping with plantar fasciitis can present challenges, but it doesn’t have to severely limit your daily activities. If foot pain is affecting your ability to move comfortably, consulting with a podiatrist may provide valuable assistance.
Plantar Fasciitis Symptoms
The symptoms of plantar fasciitis vary from person to person but 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
Plantar fasciitis is commonly caused by a tight plantar fascia, which may be attributed to:
- Muscle weakness
- Restricted joint range of motion
- Change of footwear or activity
- Foot posture treatment
Additional causes of plantar fasciitis may 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
Despite being uncomfortable at best and painful at worst, plantar fasciitis is often treatable. The journey to recovery requires patience and dedication on both your part and your podiatrist’s, as if left untreated plantar fasciitis may become chronic and lead to further problems such as chronic pain, heel spurs, and a reduced quality of life.
At Talaria Podiatrist, we provide a diverse range of treatment options near Alphington tailored to your specific needs. Whether you’re a student or a senior, our objective is to improve your mobility while minimising pain. We recognise that everyone is different, and what works for one person may not be useful for another. Our experienced podiatrists will create a customised management plan for you, which may involve shockwave therapy, strapping, footwear guidance, stretching and strengthening exercises, orthotics, and needling. In rare cases, surgery may be considered for severe plantar fasciitis, although it is not commonly required.
Ready to experience comfort with each step and walk confidently in Alphington?
Your Plantar Fasciitis Questions Answered
Who can get plantar fasciitis?
While plantar fasciitis can occur in anyone, certain factors increase the risk. People engaged in activities that exert pressure on the feet, such as athletes, runners, dancers, or individuals with jobs involving prolonged standing or walking, are often at higher risk. Other factors include having flat feet or high arches, tight calf muscles or Achilles tendon, being overweight, and wearing unsupportive footwear. While plantar fasciitis can develop at any age, it is most commonly observed in middle-aged individuals between 40 and 60 years old.
How is plantar fasciitis diagnosed?
Diagnosing plantar fasciitis typically involves taking into account your medical history and performing a physical examination. Additional imaging tests may be required in certain cases. If you suspect you may have plantar fasciitis, the initial step is to schedule a consultation with a podiatrist, such as our team at Talaria Podiatrist, who will carefully evaluate your symptoms, conduct a comprehensive foot examination, and provide a diagnosis.
What makes plantar fasciitis worse?
Prolonged standing or walking, participating in high-impact activities, wearing unsuitable footwear, and having tight muscles in the lower limbs may all contribute to worsening plantar fasciitis.
Why does plantar fasciitis hurt more in the morning?
While you sleep, the inactivity causes your plantar fascia to contract and tighten. When you wake up and take your first steps, the sudden stretching of the plantar fascia may cause inflammation, resulting in pain during walking. If this is the case for you, performing stretching exercises in the morning may alleviate the discomfort.
How long does it take for plantar fasciitis treatment near Alphington to work?
How long treatment takes will vary depending on factors such as your individual circumstances and the severity of your condition. In general, recovery may take several weeks to several months. It’s important to stick with your tailored treatment plan as it is designed to assist you in the safest way possible.
Why Talaria Podiatrist is the Team for Your Feet
Dedicated Team
Since 2017, our team of podiatrists has been committed to the well-being of Alphington feet, providing extensive education and knowledge in all matters related to foot and nail care.
Welcoming Environment
Our team is dedicated to creating a welcoming and friendly atmosphere, ensuring a personable experience for each individual who enters our clinic.
Local Care
We’re conveniently located in Thornbury and also provide care to those in surrounding communities such as Alphington.
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
Our team of experienced podiatrists is committed to delivering exceptional foot care and treatment for a diverse range of conditions near Alphington, such as plantar fasciitis. Whether you’re grappling with enduring foot pain or seeking preventative care, our skilled professionals at Talaria Podiatrist are ready to assist. Rely on our skills and proficiency, advanced facilities, and welcoming, individualised approach to provide customised solutions for your specific requirements. Refuse to allow foot pain to hinder your progress any further—reach out to Talaria Podiatrist now and embark on the initial step towards improved, more content feet.