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.
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 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
While plantar fasciitis can be uncomfortable and even painful, it is often manageable with proper treatment. The path to recovery requires patience and commitment from both you and your podiatrist. If left untreated, plantar fasciitis may progress into a chronic condition and give rise to additional complications, including chronic pain, heel spurs, and a diminished quality of life.
At Talaria Podiatrist, we prioritise offering a wide range of treatment options near Kew 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 Kew?
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?
Plantar fasciitis is typically diagnosed with a combination of your medical history and a physical examination. In some cases, imaging tests may also be required. If you’re concerned you may have plantar fasciitis, the first step is to see a podiatrist such as our team at Talaria Podiatrist so we can discuss your symptoms and examine and assess your feet.
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?
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 Kew 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
Since 2017, our team of podiatrists has been dedicated to serving Kew and offering a wealth of experience in the field 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
Thornbury serves as our central location, allowing us to provide care to individuals residing in the surrounding communities such as Kew.
Get That Spring Back in Your Step
By reaching out to us, you’re embarking on a path towards a future where foot pain mightn’t be a hindrance any longer. We’ll collaborate with you to tackle your concerns and pinpoint the treatment that suits you best, assisting you in achieving optimal outcomes. Whether your goal is to take leisurely strolls, engage in basketball, or contribute to your team’s score, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Let Us Care for You, Every Step of the Way
Dedicated to providing outstanding foot care and treatment for various conditions near Kew, 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.