Putting Your Feet First
Have you ever experienced the disappointment of waking up in the morning, eager to begin your day, only to be met with foot pain as soon as your feet hit the floor? Or perhaps you’re familiar with the sharp heel pain that can occur after a jog, leaving you breathless for the wrong reasons. Whether it’s one or both of these scenarios, it’s highly likely that you’re acquainted with plantar fasciitis— even if you weren’t aware of it.
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis, which affects the ligament connecting the heel bone to the ball of the foot, is a prevalent cause of foot pain and discomfort in the lower extremities. It typically arises from factors such as abnormal foot stresses, most commonly associated with excess pronation or flat feet. Individuals with plantar fasciitis often experience pain that interferes with their 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
While the symptoms of plantar fasciitis can vary from person to person, they typically 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
Other factors that can contribute to 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
Despite the discomfort and potential pain associated with plantar fasciitis, useful treatment options are often available. The road to recovery necessitates patience and commitment from both yourself and your podiatrist. If left unaddressed, plantar fasciitis may progress to a chronic condition, resulting in additional problems such as chronic pain, heel spurs, and a diminished quality of life.
At Talaria Podiatrist, we provide a diverse range of treatment options near Fairfield 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 step into comfort and walk with confidence in Fairfield?
Your Plantar Fasciitis Questions Answered
Who can get plantar fasciitis?
While plantar fasciitis can affect anyone, there are specific risk factors that may increase the likelihood. Individuals engaged in activities that strain the feet, such as athletes, runners, dancers, or those with occupations involving prolonged standing or walking, are often more prone to developing plantar fasciitis. Other risk factors include having flat feet or high arches, tight calf muscles or Achilles tendon, being overweight, and wearing improper footwear. While plantar fasciitis can develop at any age, it is most commonly seen in middle-aged individuals between 40 and 60 years old.
How is plantar fasciitis diagnosed?
To diagnose plantar fasciitis, a combination of your medical history and a physical examination is typically employed. In certain cases, additional imaging tests may be necessary. If you suspect you have plantar fasciitis, it is advisable to seek the skills of a podiatrist, such as our team at Talaria Podiatrist, who will evaluate your symptoms, conduct a comprehensive foot examination, and provide a diagnosis.
What makes plantar fasciitis worse?
There are several factors that can contribute to worsening plantar fasciitis, such as prolonged standing or walking, engaging in high-impact activities, wearing inadequate footwear, and having tight muscles in the lower limbs.
Why does plantar fasciitis hurt more in the morning?
As you sleep, your plantar fascia contracts and tightens due to the lack of movement. When you wake up and put weight on your feet, the sudden stretching of the plantar fascia may lead to inflammation, resulting in painful walking. If you encounter this issue, incorporating morning stretching exercises may be beneficial.
How long does it take for plantar fasciitis treatment near Fairfield to work?
The length of treatment for plantar fasciitis can differ based on individual factors and the extent of the condition. Typically, recovery may span from several weeks to several months. It is essential to follow your customised treatment plan diligently, as it is specifically tailored to ensure your well-being and promote optimal recovery.
Why Talaria Podiatrist is the Team for Your Feet
Dedicated Team
Our team of podiatrists have been caring for Fairfield feet since 2017, offering a wealth of education and experience in all things feet and nails.
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
Located in Thornbury, our clinic offers convenient accessibility to residents of both Thornbury and the neighbouring communities such as Fairfield.
Get That Spring Back in Your Step
By taking the step to reach out to us, you’re opening the door to a future where foot pain doesn’t have to hold you back. We’ll work with you to address your concerns and find the treatment that suits you best, supporting you to achieve the best possible outcomes. Whether your goal is to take long walks, shoot hoops, or score points for your team, we’re here to assist you get there.
Let Us Care for You, Every Step of the Way
Our team of experienced podiatrists is dedicated to providing exceptional foot care and treatment for a wide range of conditions near Fairfield, including plantar fasciitis. Whether you’re struggling with persistent foot pain or seeking preventive care, our team at Talaria Podiatrist is here to support you. Trust in our knowledge and skill, state-of-the-art facilities, and friendly, personalised approach to deliver solutions tailored to your unique needs. Don’t let foot pain hold you back any longer— contact Talaria Podiatrist today and take the first stride towards healthier, happier feet.